Portraying some determinants of discrimination in the workplace

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to discuss some key aspects through a theoretical interdisciplinary approach that may contribute to shape an organizational discrimination frame. Design/methodology/approach – The paper depicts a theoretical interdisciplinary approach. Within this perspective, it undertook a literature review to identify some theoretical aspects – neglected or not appropriately addressed – that may somewhat nourish an organizational discrimination frame. Findings – Overall, this paper examined more carefully five aspects (constructs), namely, moral imperative, organizational injustice, corporate social responsibility, non-spiritual business orientation and unethical leadership, that may contribute to shape a discrimination frame if not approached properly and suggested a set of research propositions. In addition, it offers some insights into a problem that deserves more theoretical development and pertinent managerial interventions. Practical implications – The implications for business are enormous given that being labeled as an organization that encourages discriminatory company policies will certainly attract negative corporate image. Moreover, it stands to reason that firms which are portrayed as such a “devil” will have serious difficulties to survive in this new millennium. Thus, it can be predicted that organizations that are not committed to at least reducing discrimination inside their structures and human resources policies will attract growing negative feelings, perceptions and opinions. Social implications – This paper provides further theoretical underpinning for better understanding of the institutional discrimination that affects both society and organizations. Originality/value – Taken together, the moral imperative, organizational injustice, corporate social responsibility, non-spiritual business orientation and unethical leadership variables delineate a theoretical framework as to how discrimination in the workplaces takes shape.