Codes of Ethics - Respect, Equality, and Personal Accountability - Essay Example

Any personal code of ethics must include rationale, ethical statements, rules, and enforcement procedures. This paper develops a brief personal code of ethics, the basic tenets of which include ethical conduct toward others, respect, equality, and personal accountability.

Rationale
A personal code of ethics is a reflection of the deepest moral and ethical values, which are fundamental and vital for future individual and professional success (Long 14). These values guide the lives of individuals, create and sustain self-identity, promote self-esteem, and make individuals empowered in their personal and professional life (Long 14). This personal code of conduct provides effective operating definitions and instructions for following personal ethical and moral values of respect, equality, and accountability. The code of ethics ensures personal commitment to these values (Barbeito 122). The personal code of ethics is a formal document that supports and confirms personal commitment to the highest standards of ethical performance and conduct.

Ethics statement
As a person, committed to the values and principles of ethical conduct, I will:
- conduct myself as a person of the highest ethics and deepest commitment to moral values and principles;
- treat every individual equally, irrespective of their personal characteristics, talents, or individual performance;
- refrain from decisions and activities that disrespect the interests and values of others and set the standards of personal conduct, which demonstrate and promote respect for everyone;
- ask for feedback in regards to personal decisions and actions that affect others’ lives and performance and be accountable for any decision and action in public.

Rules

The statement of ethics establishes a set of rules to be followed by an ethical person.
1. Ethical values: to engage in learning and regularly expand the knowledge of ethical norms and values.
2. Equality: to ensure that each family member and friend receives sufficient attention and that the needs of all are considered.
3. Respect: to be truthful with everyone, avoid blunt expressions, bold claims, and any manipulation of others’ emotions and feelings.
4. Accountability: to pay attention to what others are saying about the actions and decisions that bear their consequences on them.

Enforcement

The principal goal of enforcing this code of ethics is to guarantee that behaviors and decisions are ethical (Kidder 24; Verschoor 20). Enforcement does not aim at punishing unethical decisions and acts. For the aims of effective enforcement, any violation of the code is considered a form of serious misconduct. The law preserves its precedence over the ethical code (Kidder 27). Regular/ continuous education becomes the top priority in ensuring and enforcing ethical behaviors and decisions. These elements will serve as an effective driver of personal ethical behaviors and the source of continuous knowledge improvement about ethics. Read More