Final answer:
Politics in organizational life involves the use of power and influence, and it can be ethical if it serves the organization's goals and doesn't harm others. However, manipulative tactics for personal gain are considered unethical and can create a toxic environment.
Step-by-step explanation:
Many managers indeed consider politics to be an intrinsic part of organizational life, and in some respects, this is true. Politics, as it applies to organizations, involves the use of power and influence by individuals and groups to achieve their goals within the company. This can entail a variety of behaviors, ranging from collaboration and persuasion to more manipulative tactics.
Using political behavior in the workplace can be seen as ethical when it aligns with the organization's values and objectives, and as long as it does not harm individuals or the organizational culture. However, the ethicality also depends on the means used and the intent behind the actions. If the political actions are solely for personal gain at the expense of others, or if manipulative tactics are used, this can quickly turn into unethical behavior, leading to a toxic work environment.
Therefore, political behavior can be a multifaceted component of the workplace, often reflecting human nature and the complex interplay of individual and collective motives within the organization. It is essential for managers and all employees to navigate these dynamics carefully to ensure that they contribute positively to the organization and its members.