Karlibeth Leitheiser

Professor Greenhaw
AEC3322
April 16, 2021
Ethical Leadership Philosophy

When developing my own personal ethical philosophy, I take many ethical theories into
consideration. Every person’s set of morals is unique, it is impossible to stick to just one theory.
Pieces of these theories combined with my own personal experiences have shaped my current
moral compass. My ethical code has a strong impact on how I act as a leader, it is important to
understand how personal ethics affect my leadership style.
The ethical theory that most reflects myself is virtue ethics. Virtue ethics is the quest to
understand and live a life of moral character. I try to be a “good” person by doing onto others
what I would want done onto me. I value justice, honesty, and compassion, and try to exhibit
those traits in my everyday life. When making difficult decisions, I try to channel my best self. I
take others’ feelings into consideration and keep valued virtues in mind. Compassion is
especially important to me, I feel for others in hard times and try to work things out in their
favor. Even if they do not seem deserving or willing to receive empathy, I still put their interests
first.
My compassionate nature was developed at a young age. I spent many afternoons with
my grandmother, a very loving and caring person. She was a devout Catholic who cared deeply
for everyone around her. She played a large role in creating the person I am today. When I am
feeling wronged or upset by someone, I try to think of what she would say in that situation.
Channeling empathy has helped me through many confrontations in my life. Everyone has
unique experiences that have shaped the way they think, act, and speak. In my life, the
relationship I had with my grandmother had the most profound impact on my ethical perspective.
My ethical code of valuing virtuous traits shaped how I lead others. Although I currently
do not hold any official leadership positions, in my past I have had official titles and today I
continue to display leadership in my everyday life. When making decisions, I choose to put my
best foot forward by making choices that reflect my moral character. I make decisions that will
benefit all when faced with ultimatums. Overall, I value justice and the sense of what is right. I
am passionate about social causes and use my voice to advocate for movements I strongly
believe in. When leading others, I make it clear what my values are and how that affects my
leadership techniques. I advocate for open communication between leader and follower, as well
as rewarding displays of virtuous traits. While serving as President of my FFA chapter, I
presided over officer meetings and facilitate new ideas. I valued honesty and respect among the
officer meetings, I guided discussion in a way that would allow everyone’s voice to be heard.
Understanding my ethical philosophy and comparing it to my leadership style was very
beneficial. It allowed me to see myself from a alternative perspective and address how I make
decisions. Knowing why I think the way I do can prevent bias and misunderstandings in future
situation. I think the most important component of understanding ethical philosophies is knowing
that others will think differently than you, and new ideas from alternative perspectives should be
embraced rather than rejected.