Question

is it inherently unethical to pursue personal gain when a) the overall climate within an organization is unethical or corrupt, and b) doing so does not quantifiably harm the organization, i.e. the organization does not suffer from loss revenues or profits?

Answer 1

A.

It is unethical to go for the personal gain even if the whole organizational climate is unethical, because it is the personal ethics, values and cultural learning that make us work to create value for the customers and the organization. It is morally high and right behavior, set by  the society. It is the right way to respond and set an example to those who are in ethical dilemma regarding what to do or what not to do. It will make utilitarian approach to pursue ethics.

B.

Again, it is unethical, because it may not harm the organization in terms of the loss of revenue, but it will set a wrong example and it will be against the personal ethical standards. Further, it can harm the loyalty of the customers and long term relationship with the customers. It is also not good from the deontological approach of ethics where the intention of the action is more important. Hence, pursuing self gain is not ethical as per this approach.