Giving Voice To Values

“It is no longer acceptable to merely bemoan the problem of a 'few bad apples' and then focus on preparing future business leaders to develop awareness of the kinds of ethical breaches they might encounter.”

Gentile critiques the notion of blaming unethical behavior on a “few bad apples” to demonstrate the need for a more systemic approach to ethics in leadership development. She argues that simply recognizing ethical breaches isn’t enough. Instead, there must be an emphasis on preparing future leaders to take proactive, values-driven actions in the face of ethical dilemmas. By shifting focus from awareness to action, Gentile challenges traditional methods of ethics education, as she advocates for practical strategies to address widespread ethical failures in organizations.

“The conviction behind GVV—one that is supported by both qualitative research as well as cognitive neuroscience studies—is that, simply stated, practice makes perfect, or at least, practice makes our voice and action more likely.”

Gentile emphasizes The Importance of Preparation and Rehearsal in Effective Values-Driven Leadership to offer a practical approach that equips individuals to navigate ethical dilemmas effectively rather than a theoretical approach that merely identifies the challenge. By referencing both qualitative research and cognitive neuroscience, she provides data-based support for her approach, highlighting the idea repeatedly engaging with ethical decision-making enhances one’s confidence and readiness to act when the moment arises. In advocating for consistent practice, which increases the likelihood of individuals stepping up and voicing their values in real-world situations, Gentile reinforces the idea that ethical behavior is built through experience and repetition.