What is meant by "ethical leadership" in the Army?

Ethical leadership in the Army is defined as leading in accordance with Army Values and professional standards. This approach emphasizes integrity, respect, selfless service, and accountability, which are foundational to the effectiveness and trust within military units. Ethical leaders prioritize the well-being of their soldiers and uphold the moral principles that guide their actions and decisions.

This concept ensures that decisions are made with fairness and transparency, fostering an environment where all personnel feel valued and respected. By adhering to the Army Values, leaders set a standard for behavior that contributes to team cohesion, morale, and resilience, ultimately enhancing mission success.

The other choices reflect behaviors that are not aligned with the principles of ethical leadership. Leading based solely on personal interests or making decisions based on whim not only undermines trust but also erodes the moral framework essential for effective leadership in a military context. Similarly, acting in ways that favor certain subordinates can lead to perceptions of favoritism and inequality, further damaging unit cohesion and morale.