Bases conceptuales de la gestión socialmente responsable. La superación ética de los criterios pragmáticos y utilitarios en la función directiva

Abstract

In the world of public and private organizations, civil servants and managers face the dilemma of: a) criteria of efficiency and effectiveness, and b) the demand of ethic principles and values. Effectiveness is related with productivity and results, and based in the idea that the end justifies the means. Responsible management applies certain ethical principles, showing respect for values such as freedom, equality, solidarity and legitimate demands from the community, not only clients. The dilemma arises because of the lack of congruity among economical results and the need of human development in the organization. We explain the sources and effects of those dualities and we propose possible ways to overcome the dilemma between competitive practices in the market and community demands. Responsible management refers to the respect of human rights, work stability, equal opportunities and environmental impact. These principles should be specified in decision making processes. This article includes theoretical and practical contributions, among which should be emphasized: the revision of constitutional agreements of the organization, the incorporation of stakeholders in government, the training of managers to include values in their decisions, team working models, training in transparent communication and social control over policy decisions in organizations.