Ethics
Submitted by: Mary Wolf
Ethics involves a system of moral principles and is concerned with the concept of right and wrong standards of behavior. Unlike law, which is formally prescribed and enforced by a controlling authority, ethics is based on moral standards, illegal or not. These moral standards, or ethical values, are formed through the influence of others and are concerned with relationships between people and how, ultimately, people live in peace and harmony. Values may be ethical or unethical. Behavior may be unethical but not illegal. Therefore ethics assumes a special meaning and involves the systematic reflection on, and analysis of, morality. It takes on a specific form when someone assumes the role of a position of trust.
Generally speaking, ethical standards dictate behavior when law or precedents, which may prescribe behavior, do not exist. This means that whenever one possesses the power of discretionary decision-making behavior, the behavior should conform to what one OUGHT TO do even though law, policy or precedent prescribing MUST-DO behaviors is not available. The ends DO NOT always justify the means. Conducting oneself according to an acceptable ethical standard, whether a code (canon) of ethics exits or not, means doing the right thing at the right time. From the standpoint of one who is in a position of trust, this also means avoiding civil and criminal liability in one’s actions.
Potential ethical problems in positions of trust include corruption, discrimination, violation of rights to privacy, violation of rights under the Constitution, entrapment, negligence, illicit business practices and uncivil conduct. The “ends justify the means” is inconsistent with professional ethics and serving in a position of trust.
So what is the purpose of all this discourse? Food for thought. CMA has bylaws, a mission statement and letters of commitment that are signed by directors and staff. There is even talk of a membership bill of rights…..But what about responsibility and accountability? There has been much talk about codes and paths and who follows what version of the “witches” rede. So I ask, why speak to another’s word? Create your own. Live by it. Tell others what you do/how you live that code. You might be surprised by what grows from the seeds you plant.