Final answer:
Ethical behavior in an organization is affected by professional codes of ethics, legal guidelines, and organizational culture, while the influence of an employee's level of education is less predictable.
Step-by-step explanation:
Business Ethics and Employee Behavior
The behavior of employees and managers in an organization being ethical is a multifaceted issue influenced by several factors, including professional codes of ethics, laws, education, and organizational culture. Professional organizations often create codes of ethics that their members must follow to maintain their good standing within the profession. For example, the IEEE Computer Society has a Software Engineering Code of Ethics and Professional Practice that guides the ethical conduct of software engineers. These codes are not solely to comply with legal requirements but also to align with societal values and moral principles.
Moreover, legal guidelines influence organizational behavior by establishing the minimum acceptable standards of conduct through laws and regulations. However, legal compliance is often considered the floor, not the ceiling, of ethical behavior. Another contributing factor is an individual's level of education, as it can provide a better understanding of the ethical implications of one's actions, although it may not always predict ethical behavior.
Finally, organizational culture plays a critical role in shaping the actions of both managers and employees. The values, expectations, and practices promoted within an organization can significantly influence whether its members behave ethically. Companies that foster a culture of honesty, integrity, and accountability are more likely to see those behaviors reflected in their employees.
To summarize, the statement that the ethical behavior of employees and managers is a function of professional codes of ethics is True. The statement that it is a function of the relevant laws and legal guidelines applying to the organization and its industry is True. The claim that it depends on the employee's level of education is False as education alone is not a predictor of ethical behavior. Lastly, the assertion that it is a function of the organization's culture is True.