ETHICS, MORALS AND THE PROFESSIONAL
by
Kelley S. Mackenroth
Janke & Associates, APLC
I. Introduction
What are ethics? What is morality? How can one behave in a moral manner? Just what
are ethics and morality, and what is the difference between the two? How do our values impact
our ethical decisions and moral standards? Do moral decisions always align with ethical
decisions?
There is a basic, albeit subtle, difference between ethics and morals. Morals define
personal character, while ethics stress a social system in which those morals are applied. In other
words, ethics point to standards or codes of behavior expected by a group to which the individual
belongs (i.e., professional ethics). While a person's moral code is usually unchanging, the ethics
(s)he practices can be other-dependent.
II. Definitions
A. Ethics
1. Ethics are typically defined as the rules or standards governing the
conduct of a person or the members of a profession. The basic concepts and fundamental
principles of right human conduct. It includes study of universal values such as the essential
equality of all men and women, human or natural rights, obedience to the law of land, concern
for health and safety and, increasingly, also for the natural environment.
2. Ethical Standards are principles that when followed, promote values such
as trust, good behavior, fairness, and/or kindness. Ethical standards are not always easily
enforceable, as they are frequently vaguely defined and somewhat open to interpretation (i.e.,
treat the client with respect and kindness). Others can be more specific (i.e., do not share
confidential information).
3. Ethical values are a set of established principles governing virtuous
behavior. To help assure that a profession maintains a good reputation, many professions
concerned about public relations will develop and promote a set of suitable ethical values for
those within the profession to adhere to when doing business/practicing their profession.
4. Ethical issues are problems or situations that require a person or
organization to choose between alternatives that must be evaluated as right (ethical) or wrong
(unethical).
