Which of the following best defines an ethical leader?

An ethical leader is best defined as someone who embodies both personal integrity and the capability to prioritize moral principles in management. This definition highlights the dual aspects of ethical leadership: being a moral person signifies that the leader possesses a strong personal code of ethics and values, while being a moral manager indicates the leader's commitment to fostering an ethical work environment and encouraging ethical behavior within their organization.

This holistic approach ensures that ethical leaders not only uphold their own moral standards but also guide their team toward making responsible choices and maintaining ethical practices, even in challenging situations. Such leaders inspire trust and respect, which are essential for effective leadership and a positive organizational culture.

In contrast, the other options lack the comprehensive understanding of what constitutes ethical leadership. Focusing solely on profits disregards the ethical implications of business decisions, prioritizing popularity undermines ethical considerations, and avoiding difficult decisions can lead to unethical outcomes in leadership.