Why did they lose their way?

[LineInTheSand]

I've been reading a book recently called "The Smartest Guys in the Room." It's about the rise and fall of Enron.

It's been an interesting read. You of course have the typical well-known players like Ken Lay, Jeff Skilling and Andy Fastow, but there have been a number of veterans in the mix including a seemingly high number of West Point graduates. Their conduct was disturbing, in the book, because of they utter disregard for ethical conduct.

We talk a lot on SAF about good cadets and mishipmen becoming good officers.... here's a questions.... how much of that have you/would you carry over to your "life after service". That "alfa male" menality fits in nicely in a number of business environments, but where does the "win at all costs" fit?

 

[osdad]

Regarding jet noise for example, I've heard it said: Patriotism ends where one's wallet begins. I think that same can be applied to certain ethics. It's easyier to be ethical when those around you are - much more difficult when those around you aren't and there's big bucks involved.

 

[billyb]

That is when the true leader stands up and does the right thing. There are plenty of people that want to do the right thing, but need someone to follow that makes the hard decision that flys in the face of the "boss" or profits.