In the The Crisis of Character, R. Bruce Bickel discusses what he describes as the difference between morals and ethics and how our modern culture confuses the two. According to Bickel, “Today the words are nearly synonymous, but historically there’s a vast difference. The word ‘morals’ comes from the Greek word mores, describing the shifting changes in society — literally it means ever changing. Societal changes bring about moral adaptations that are reflections of current trends.” Bickel continues, “In contrast, our word ‘ethics’ comes from the Greek word ethos and describes ideas of security and stability….you’ll find the word used to describe a place one would go for protection in the midst of a storm….hence, a place of stability and permanence. Ethics refer to a set of standards that are absolute.”

Bickel accords a permanence to the word “ethics,” implying a set of standards that are rock solid, whereas he links morals more to societal norms that are reflective of generational changes and shifting trends. Morals adapt to the times of our lives, whereas ethics remain a constant. Bickel goes on to say, “While morality is concerned with what people do, ethics is concerned with what people ought to do.”

Regardless of your stance on morals and ethics, they are hot buttons for leadership. When then President Bill Clinton had improper sexual relations with Monica Lewinski, it revealed his moral character. When he then wagged his finger at the world and denied it, he bent the truth.

Leadership has always been a high calling. A leader with loose morals is judged by society and his or her culture. A leader who yields on ethical standards often faces legal consequences. As a leader, you can’t afford to compromise either, especially when society and culture mix morals and ethics together and allow relativism to replace absolutes. The extramarital affairs of Tiger Woods are a case in point. They weren’t illegal so far as we know, but the public saw his behavior as immoral. His character and reputation suffered as a result, despite his plea for privacy. As one commentator stated, a public person gives up his privacy when he or she makes millions from his fame.

Character determines conduct. Conduct determines credibility. And credibility is one of the pillars of leadership.

Tags: Character, Ethics, Leadership Excellence, Personal Development, Philosophy, Reputation, Values, Wisdom