The influence of «ethical disillusionment» on «corruption tolerance»: some insights from structural equation modeling

Frame of the research. This research is situated within the broader discourse on the interplay between ethics and corruption, a topic of enduring importance and complexity. The study delves into the subtleties of how individual perceptions and societal norms intertwine to shape behaviors and attitudes towards corruption. Purpose of the paper. The primary aim is to dissect the relationship between «ethical disillusionment» - the cynicism towards the integrity of ethical discourse - and «corruption tolerance» - the acceptance of corruption as a normative aspect of organizational life. The research intends to shed light on the predictive power of disillusionment in ethics for tolerating corrupt practices. Methodology. the study employs Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) to analyze survey data from Italian managers, focusing on the constructs of «ethical disillusionment» and «corruption tolerance». SEM’s robust analytical framework provides both the measurement model to validate the constructs and the structural model to explore the causal relationships between them. Results. Findings from the SEM indicate a significant positive relationship: a one-unit increase in «ethical disillusionment» leads to a 0.59-point increase in «corruption tolerance». This model accounts for 34.9% of the variance in ‘Corruption Tolerance’ and is statistically significant with a p-value of 0.002. Research limitations. The study is limited by its sample size and the specific socio-economic context of Italy, which may not be generalizable. The SEM model, while robust, is also contingent on the accuracy and representativeness of the observed variables. Managerial implications. For practitioners, the results highlight the need for authentic ethical engagement within organizations. Addressing «ethical disillusionment» is crucial for reducing «corruption tolerance» and fostering a culture of integrity. Originality of the paper. The paper’s originality lies in its analytical approach to understanding the causal impact of ethical perceptions on corruption attitudes, particularly within the Italian context, providing valuable insights into the mechanisms by which ethical norms shape individual and collective behavior towards corruption.