It seems that wherever we turn there is another institution, another politician, another figure head being charged with crime. Banks are being fined for fraud; companies are rife with corruption. Ponzi schemes, embezzlement. The pillars of our society are failing us moral(ly).
Our education systems are not holding up either. Where we should be looking for higher education and drivers for innovation. We find academia has been for sale, money has infiltrated science and is steering thought. Steering thought without any requirement to disclose potential conflict of interest.
Is it the media we turn to for the truth? Media is not proving unbiased any longer. In fact, our news is purposely directed to serve a certain purpose. The viewer unknowingly left emotionally manipulated. This emotion creates feelings, feelings shape belief, belief drives behaviour.
Who Is In Control Here?
In 2010 a study1 was conducted to investigate the troubling idea of existence of psychopaths in corporate leadership. In fact, the idea started with “…the following statement in casual response by Hare to a question asked at the end of a 2002 address…”
Not all psychopaths are in prison. Some are in the Boardroom.
Hare, 2002
Morals In The Corporation?
This study entitled “Corporate Psychopathy: Talking the Walk” examined corporate professionals. Professionals selected by their employers to participate in management development programs.
The result, no surprise, was an indication that the corporate sample was consistent with findings in community and offender studies. Findings in community and offender studies are based on a very large body of literature. Literature on the important role of psychopathy in the criminal justice system.
Further, based on events in the news and in politics, I think it is safe to say the existence of psychopathy is consistent in the criminal justice system. Indeed, in corporations and in politics.
The Slow Burn of Moral(s)
It is no wonder the world is in turmoil. This has been slowly building up over time. The worst part, these problems may continue for generations.
In fact, corrupt leaders teach the next generation of leaders. Our education institutions are shaping the minds of our future with lack of ethics and with corrupt case study.
The Good News
The good news? The Psychopaths represent a portion of the population. It is true, not the entire makeup.
This means corporations, schools, and voters must look for different traits when selecting the leaders of tomorrow.
Though, we are doing good work here with inclusiveness and diversity. These will become common themes. Further, even demands for our employers.
The Missing Piece
We are missing one thing.
Those good people that we know are out there need to stand up and make themselves available. Additionally, to make themselves known. Then, we can put a good foot forward for a change.
These leaders may not make us wealthy as quickly. But, they will leave a healthier future for our children.
How Do I Know Who To Trust? Your Moral Compass
How can you tell who to trust? It is built in, inside you.
We must trust our inner moral compass. And, acknowledge when we feel that this person, this organization, or this action is bad.
Then We Must Act
Indeed, stand by your values and speak up.
Eventually, others will listen and find their way.
When you select a political candidate think about our education system. And, our future.
Science and our thought leaders should be funded by the people’s money for the people’s gain not for corporate wealth.
We should invest in our education system and fields of study to support innovation.
This is the way to ensure strong employment options and stability. Even when we are face challenges from advancement in robotics and AI.
These are not things to be feared. In face, lets move on to what people excel at.
Create, Think, Theorize, Educate, Act Moral(ly)
But, do it without the bias of getting money.
I do not know that money is the root of all evil. However, what some people do to get money is evil.
There is too much proof surrounding us all right now.
Above all, we should not accept these bad acting individuals as authority figures any longer.
If you have been burned by these people in your career do not give up. Take the time you have now to prepare for another push forward to a better future.
1Babiak P, Neumann CS, Hare RD. Corporate psychopathy: Talking the walk. Behav Sci Law. 2010;28(2):174-193. doi:10.1002/bsl.925
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