Blind Spots: Why We Fail To Do What's Right And... [ VALIDATED — TUTORIAL ]

Before a decision, our "should" self (rational and ethical) is in charge. However, at the moment of the decision, the "want" self (impulsive and self-interested) takes over. Afterwards, we use "ethical fading" to justify our actions and maintain our positive self-image.

Organizations should audit their incentive structures. If you reward only the "bottom line," you are architecting an environment where ethical blind spots flourish. Blind Spots: Why We Fail to Do What's Right and...

Recognize that you will be tempted in the moment and set "pre-commitment" strategies. Before a decision, our "should" self (rational and

We have a tendency to overlook the unethical behaviour of others when it is in our interest to remain ignorant (e.g., a manager ignoring a top salesperson's shady tactics). Organizations should audit their incentive structures

Just as we have limits on our cognitive abilities (bounded rationality), we have psychological limits that prevent us from seeing the ethical dimensions of our choices.

This occurs when the ethical aspects of a decision disappear from view, often because they are masked by "business" goals, "legal" requirements, or "efficiency" metrics.