What happened to work ethics?

Where I work (a large grocery chain) we have a number of employees (18–20ish) who seem to think that the workplace/job is their personal playground; rules are for others, I will do as I please, just give me the paycheck and piss off.

This is compounded by the employers’ tolerance; it is amazingly difficult to get fired, doubly so if one is of a minority. They will take any number of infractions like: not showing up or calling in – coming in late (by hours) even if one is opening up- not adhering to the dress code (even after being sent home to change – several times)- the list goes on an on, all apparently without consequences.

I admit I am old-school as far as work ethics go, but what happened? Are we teaching young people it’s ok to disrespect employer/employee relationships? Why are we tolerating weak work ethics when so many people need work? Are any of you seeing the same thing?