Leadership Skills

Introduction to Ethics in Action

What exactly are ethics? If you asked people at random, you would probably receive different responses. Generally, though, ethics is how a person distinguishes between right and wrong. Many people believe that the division between right and wrong is clearly defined; however, there is no global definition that can be used to identify what is right and what is wrong in every situation. Some people base their views about right and wrong on religion values, whereas other people may base their views on adherance to laws.

As a general rule, ethics includes social norms, individual values, as well as laws. Ethics differs between cultures and often within cultures. Over time, a once ethical practice can become an unacceptable, unethical practice. For example, in the Tudor period of English history, beheading was considered the most ethical manner for royalty to be executed. Hanging, as a form of capital punishment, was common in the early 20th century, and the last hanging in the United States was in in 1996 in Delaware. The previous two hangings were in Washington in 1993 and 1994.

Where Do Our Ethics Originate?

Our belief in what is right vs. wrong begins with our families and how we are raised. As we grow older, our friends, peers, teachers, religious experiences, and work cultures help mold our beliefs. Our experiences, whether they are positive or negative, also help develop our perspectives. Many people go through life seeing things from their individual ethical lens; however, every situation could be viewed from different perspectives.

It is the different ethical schools that make studying ethics and evaluating cases interesting. By examining situations with a different "lens" or perspectives, everything changes. Evaluating cases from other ethical schools does not mean that an individual must change his or her ethical beliefs, but doing so may allow for better understanding for those who have differing values.

Why Study Ethics?

Ethics are the principles that guide behavior. An individual's ethics help determine what is right and wrong. An ethical code of conduct is a statement that can be used to help guide one through tough decisions. Ethics are related to our moral philosophy about life. Studying ethics and determining what you believe and think will help you know what to do in any situation.

• You should know what you value
• You should understand how people might differ
• You should be able to discuss issues without forcing your beliefs on others
• You could model your ethical beliefs in your daily life