Combining moral orientation and justice theory: fairness lessons for the decision maker

Abstract

Drawing from justice and moral orientation literature, this paper examines the role that one’s sex plays within the decision appraisal process in shaping individual fairness perceptions. We propose that males and females use a different “viewing lens” when scrutinizing decisions made by others; accordingly, interactional justice is of primary importance for woman while procedural justice is of principal importance to men. We conclude with a discussion on how decision makers, by understanding this process, can increase the acceptance of their decisions.