Synthetic ethics: posthuman leadership in algorithmically governed organizations

Purpose This paper aims to conceptualize “synthetic ethics” as a theoretical framework within posthuman leadership contexts, examining how algorithmic systems mediate ethical reasoning in organizations. Design/methodology/approach A narrative literature review methodology synthesizes insights from posthumanist theory, business ethics and AI governance to develop an understanding of synthetic ethics in posthuman leadership contexts. Findings This study argues that algorithmic governance can be understood as generating hybrid forms of moral agency through human–AI interaction that extend beyond conventional anthropocentric ethics. Leadership functions increasingly emerge from human–AI assemblages, challenging traditional notions of responsibility, accountability and ethical decision-making. Practical implications Organizations must develop new governance structures, leadership competencies and ethical frameworks to navigate posthuman leadership arrangements. This includes implementing transparency mechanisms, such as periodic algorithmic audits or bias-impact reviews, reconfiguring decision-making processes and cultivating ethical awareness for human–AI collaboration. Originality/value This paper introduces “synthetic ethics” as a novel theoretical construct for understanding the emergent ethical frameworks arising from human–AI collaborations in leadership roles. It contributes to business ethics by addressing the anthropocentric bias in existing frameworks and proposing more inclusive approaches that accommodate the distributed nature of agency in algorithmically governed organizations.