How is ethical drift defined?

Ethical drift is defined as the gradual erosion of ethical behavior over time. This concept illustrates how individuals or organizations may start with a clear ethical framework but, through small compromises or rationalizations, can begin to stray from those principles. These minor lapses in ethical judgment accumulate, leading to a significant change in behavior that may not be immediately recognized as unethical.

In many professional environments, like law enforcement, ethical drift can occur due to pressures such as the need to meet expectations, conformity to group norms, or justifying actions that would normally be considered unacceptable. Understanding this process is crucial for maintaining high ethical standards and vigilance against complacency in ethical decision-making. By recognizing the signs of ethical drift, individuals and organizations can implement preventative measures to uphold and reaffirm their commitment to ethical conduct.