Honesty and Accountability

This week's content discussed some common successful leader qualities and their ethical implications.

Take a few moments to read this article: "What's Good about Lying?"

After you've read the article and given this some thought, discuss whether you think it is ever ethical for a leader to lie if the intent and/or the result is to benefit the team as a whole. Why or why not?

Re-read the quote from Secretary of State Colin Powell in this week's content. Do you agree with Powell that good leaders should "share the credit" but "take the blame"? Why or why not?

Full Answer Section

Ultimately, I think that it is generally unethical for leaders to lie. There are very few situations where lying is truly justified, and even in those situations, it is important to weigh the risks and benefits carefully.

I do agree with Secretary of State Colin Powell that good leaders should "share the credit" but "take the blame." This is because good leaders are humble and they are willing to put the needs of their team above their own. They are also willing to take responsibility for their mistakes, even if it means making themselves look bad.

I think that this is an important quality for leaders to have, as it builds trust and respect among followers. When leaders are willing to share the credit, it shows that they are confident in their team and that they are not afraid to let others shine. When leaders are willing to take the blame, it shows that they are accountable and that they care about the team's success.

I think that both of these qualities are essential for good leaders. Leaders who are humble and accountable are more likely to build successful teams and to achieve their goals.

Sample Answer

I think that the article "What's Good about Lying?" raises some interesting points about the ethics of lying. The author argues that lying can sometimes be ethical if it is done for the right reasons. For example, a leader may lie to protect their team from harm or to achieve a greater good.

However, I think that it is important to be very careful about lying, even if it is for the right reasons. Lying can erode trust, and it can make it difficult for leaders to build and maintain relationships with their followers. It can also lead to problems down the road, as the truth may eventually come out.