It is important to define integrity. What is integrity? There may be a number of possible definitions of integrity. Below is one possible integrity definition:
A person with integrity consistently behaves in a manner that
reflects honesty and fairness.
The above definition of integrity suggests that there are two basic components of integrity: honesty and fairness. One integrity example involving honesty would be a person who describes his or her personality accurately. An integrity example involving fairness would be a person who strives to be fair in a letter of reference.
Fairness
Fairness is an element of integrity that could have a number of different conceptualizations. It would depend on one's standards for what is fair. It may be based on equality, effort, equity, or some other standard. For example, if equality is perceived to be an attribute of fairness in a company, all employees may be allowed to share their opinions and participate in decisions. If effort is perceived to be an attribute of fairness, then employees who make a great effort at their jobs may receive an increase in their salary.
Consistency
The above definition also suggest that integrity reflects consistent behavior. Thus, a person who is only sometimes fair or honest may not be judged to have integrity.
Integrity and Ethics
Integrity and ethics are related. Ethics reflects principles of moral behavior, and integrity is a basic principle of moral behavior. In fact, integrity can be viewed as the foundation of moral behavior. Moral behavior reflects consistency in honesty and fairness.