Ethics and social responsibilities are two concepts that have specific definitions, yet each person approaches them differently. For example, cheating is not ethical or socially responsible by definition, yet certain circumstances can create an environment in which cheating is not perceived as something wrong. This implies a more considerable distance between the deed itself and the understanding of the said activity. When the person does not tie the consequence to something they have done, an adverse action becomes neutral and can be rationalized. This may be applied to the action of paying for something through a credit card since the transaction does not imply physically counting bills and giving them away, which ultimately blurs the understanding of the consequence.
Rationalization is at the core of dishonesty when one tries to look for an explanation and do something that is morally wrong yet remains a reasonable person in their own eyes. Thus, an individual who can find a rational explanation of why an action was not wrong does not have any reasons to stop doing it if it benefits them. However, specific facilitators of ethics and social responsibilities can be applied for individuals to change their ways and become more honest and transparent when it comes to what they do. First, a reminder of something being dishonest contributes to honesty.
One who frequently reminds themselves of the definition of a decent individual, which always involves social responsibility, is less likely to engage in unethical behavior. Moreover, giving people the ability to open a new page and start behaving differently also affects actions positively from an ethical standpoint. However, for these implementations to work, there is a need for a structural change that can facilitate the aims to improve morally and not put personal interest and motivation above decency and integrity.
References
Ariely, D. (2012). The truth about dishonesty [Video]. YouTube. Web.