Let's look quickly at Penn State University.  Here is an excellent case study in how a culture (football is Penn State) can be used to rationalize unethical decision making.  I am sure that rational discussions took place among people at the highest levels about the impact of what would happen to the Penn State football program (culture), if a story of the magnitude of Jerry Sandusky were published.  The cost to the University would be in the millions and so let's decide, millions of lost dollars or take a wait and see approach?  I'm sure at the time it souded like such an easy (unethical but easy) choice!