Institutional Morality and the Function of Chemical Management:A Case in Point

Authors

  • Maureen Glancy
  • Grace M. Donnelly

Keywords:

Morality, chemical management, OSHA, EPA, ethics, risk, cooperation-competition, quality oflife, safety, ecosystem.

Abstract

The bases for managing decisions are challenged as reflecting competitive-independence principles in conflict with cooperative-interdependence ideals. Institutional morality is introduced as a concept that expresses social and environmental consciousness in action decisions. Bridging of old ways to new ways of institutional thinking is suggested as a purposeful organizational approach to achieving harmony among environmental interests. Attitudinal barriers to change are discussed, and a process of adopting change is suggested. Practical application is demonstrated by interpreting data on hazardous chemical incidents and chemical management efforts as evidence of moral or compliant institutional action. Findings suggest that management in recreation-related institutions may have reason to consider caretaker management of chemicals under their control, but that they will generally do so when forced to comply with regulating standards rather than by moral initiatives.?

Published

1989-04-04

Issue

Section

Regular Papers