ABSTRACT

A potential mechanism to scrutinize the religion-consumer ethics link is moral disengagement. This chapter intends to examine why religious individuals behave unethically and the role of moral disengagement in influencing this phenomenon. It is expected to add to the dearth of knowledge regarding the reasons that compel religious individuals to commit unethical acts. The chapter discusses the theory of moral disengagement as a connecting link between religiosity and consumer ethical beliefs. Then a brief review of relevant literature is presented, followed by the conceptual proposition and linkages propounded by this study. Over the years, there has been growing interest in research towards the role of moral disengagement in sanctioning inhuman conduct among individuals and groups. The chapter concludes by a presenting discussion and some significant implications for practitioners and policymakers.