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Compartmentalization and the Role of Polyphony in Moral Dialogue

Author

Listed:
  • Taija Turunen

    (Aalto University School of Business)

  • Eva-Lena Lundgren-Henriksson

    (Hanken School of Economics)

Abstract

Existing research on identity compartmentalization highlights concerns about moral (ir)responsibility arising from the incomplete integration of multiple role identities necessary for exercising full moral agency. Our study examines the (non)recognition of otherness by managers in morally ambiguous situations during industry-level changes. We adopt a dialogue-based approach, inspired by Bakhtin, and Ricoeur, to analyze compartmentalization from the perspective of polyphonic dialogue. Through an analysis of 61 interviews across four distinct change contexts, we identify five dialogue dynamics that either hinder or facilitate the recognition of alternative moral perspectives, shaping the formation of moral polyphony. We contribute to current understandings of compartmentalization by emphasizing its dialogical and fluid nature, the generative potential of division, and the role of conflicting moral convictions in change situations, as an ideal context for fostering moral polyphony.

Suggested Citation

  • Taija Turunen & Eva-Lena Lundgren-Henriksson, 2025. "Compartmentalization and the Role of Polyphony in Moral Dialogue," Journal of Business Ethics, Springer, vol. 201(3), pages 563-586, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:kap:jbuset:v:201:y:2025:i:3:d:10.1007_s10551-025-05928-8
    DOI: 10.1007/s10551-025-05928-8
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Cécile Rozuel, 2011. "The Moral Threat of Compartmentalization: Self, Roles and Responsibility," Journal of Business Ethics, Springer, vol. 102(4), pages 685-697, September.
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