In some ways, certain aspects of these theoretical perspectives are in place in the government already. Voters voting out a substandard politician mirrors parts of Henry Mannes theory “Manne argued that the threat of being bought out is ever present in the marketplace, so external regulation beyond normal litigation against criminally fraudulent managers is unnecessary” (Fieser, Moseley, 2012, p7.2). A politician who is suspected of wrongdoing or acting inappropriately will lose support of his constituents and is voted out of office and replaced. The official (CFO) looses not only his reputation but also his office. In contrast, Adolf Berle and Gardiner Means theory of checks and balances mirrors the relationship between the United States Congress and the United States Senate it has been noted that “Separation of powers between executive and legislative bodies also helps to prevent abuse of power, but only with appropriate checks and balances ” (Persson, Roland, Tabellini, 1997, p. 1163).
Which theory best fits your ethical perspective? Which theory best fits a particular group to which you currently belong, or previously belonged?
The Theory of Checks and balances best fits my personal ethical perspective. People will generally do the right thing, however it helps if there are check and balances in place to identify those individuals that try to be dishonest. The theory of checks and balances is a strong factor throughout the military. Every soldier from the lowest private to the highest-ranking officer has someone to whom to answer.
Fieser, J. & Moseley, A. (2012). Introduction to business ethics. San Diego, CA: Bridgepoint Education, Inc. Retrieved from