Abstract

Virtues are an integral part of human flourishing, both personal and professional. In the professional field, particularly social work, virtues are fully compatible with the role of the social worker as a good person and a good professional. On that account, the notion of virtue is thought to be related only to individual professionals as moral agents. But it is certainly true that as individual professionals need virtues to flourish, organizations need virtues to flourish as well. In accordance with this idea, this chapter takes the discussion to another level, arguing that organizations, like individuals, that lack virtues or neglect them in any way are in danger of unethical practices. In this context, the chapter explores the role of virtues in social service organizations and their impact on ethical practice of social workers and other stakeholders. Finally, it suggests ways to have virtuous social service organizations so that social workers and other professionals are encouraged and empowered to foster ethical decision-making and embrace shared values and beliefs to support ethical practice in the workplace.