After Watching The Freakonomics Video Clip On Incentives

After Watching Thefreakonomicsvideo Clip On The Incentives That Sumo W

After watching the Freakonomics video clip on the incentives that sumo wrestlers face, it shows that there are times when rational people will choose to cheat in order to get a greater payoff. Has there ever been a situation that you faced where the incentives before you were such that the cheaters had an advantage? Describe how you handled the situation, and how Saint Leo’s core value of responsible stewardship could help you when facing a similar situation in the future.

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In the realm of ethical decision-making, understanding how incentives influence behavior is crucial. The Freakonomics video highlights that individuals often act rationally based on the incentives presented to them, even when such actions may be ethically questionable. Reflecting on personal experiences, I recall a situation during my academic career where the incentives inadvertently favored dishonest behavior, and examining this incident reveals how core values such as responsible stewardship can guide future conduct.

Several years ago, during my university coursework, I faced immense pressure to perform well in a demanding class. The incentive structure—strict grading curves and the fear of failing—created a context where some students, including myself at times, contemplated dishonest tactics like copying homework or unauthorized collaboration. The perceived advantage of achieving high grades was compelling enough that it overshadowed the understanding of integrity. I was tempted but ultimately chose to uphold my ethical standards by completing assignments honestly, recognizing that long-term academic integrity was more valuable than short-term success. This decision was reinforced by my personal commitment to honesty and the awareness that integrity builds trust and credibility, which are fundamental to responsible stewardship.

The concept of responsible stewardship, as emphasized by Saint Leo’s core values, underscores the importance of managing one’s responsibilities ethically and conscientiously. In situations where incentives tempt one to act dishonestly, responsible stewardship serves as a moral compass, reminding individuals that their actions have broader implications beyond personal gain. It encourages us to steward our own integrity and reputation wisely, recognizing that such qualities contribute to the well-being of the community and uphold the standards of our institution.

In the future, when faced with similar incentives that might tempt unethical behavior, embracing responsible stewardship means actively choosing integrity over dishonest shortcuts. It involves consciously reflecting on the potential consequences of my actions, recognizing the impact on colleagues, the institution, and my personal character. By adhering to this value, I can contribute to creating a culture that values honesty and accountability, which ultimately benefits the entire community.

Furthermore, responsible stewardship entails understanding that ethical behavior is vital in professional and personal contexts. Leaders and individuals who demonstrate responsibility and integrity foster trust and credibility, which are essential for long-term success. As such, nurturing this core value equips me to navigate complex situations where incentives may challenge my ethical principles, ensuring that I act responsibly and uphold the standards of my community.

In conclusion, scenarios where incentives favor dishonest behavior pose significant ethical challenges. My experience has shown that steadfast adherence to core values like responsible stewardship can provide the moral strength needed to resist such temptations. By managing my responsibilities ethically, I contribute to a culture of integrity that benefits not only myself but also the broader community, aligning with Saint Leo’s emphasis on responsible stewardship. Upholding this value will serve as a guiding principle in future circumstances, ensuring that my actions reflect a commitment to ethical responsibility and community well-being.

References

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