The Moral of the Story - Essay Example

The managers in the public services need to be motivated towards the welfare of the people at large. It would, therefore, be most appropriate if they pursue the philosophy of ‘greatest good for the greatest number’. General ethics form the basis of mutual interaction amongst the people in a society. Though some of these values evolve to embrace the changing times and others may interpret it differently under different situations the universal acceptance of what is right and what is wrong has given them a strong foothold to withstand the adversities of the time.

According to Act Utilitarian Jeremy Bentham, an action that results in the happiness of one and all is a good act. He said, “when choosing a course of action, one should always pick the one that will maximize happiness and minimize unhappiness for the greatest number of people” (Bentham from Rosenstand p.176). The actions, which result in maximum happiness for a maximum number of people, are invariable good and therefore morally and ethically right. In contemporary times, it becomes highly difficult because of the diverse ideologies and differing value systems to satisfy a large populace.

Indeed, it is one of the crucial compulsions of globalization that people should strive towards common goals of universal values. Misusing public funds by the vested interests (which may be managers in the public services) not only violates various stakeholders’ trust but also deprive the general public of the benefits of the various welfare schemes which depend on the efficient use of the funds. Hence, using the said philosophy, the managers would ensure efficient delivery of the goals and objectives of departments and organizations.