Codes Of Ethics And Codes Of Conduct

Although the terms "codes of ethics" and "codes of conduct" are frequently used interchangeably, they have distinct meanings. A code of ethics is a document that lays out a set of guidelines for making decisions. A code of ethics, for example, might state that a company or organisation is dedicated to environmental protection and green initiatives. When given the choice, it is expected that individual employees will choose the greenest option. Unlike laws, which are enacted by legislators, the code of ethics is derived from social, cultural, moral, and cultural norms. By upholding ethical values, the ultimate goal of a code of ethics is to promote social harmony.

 

•    As a condition of continued employment, a code of conduct outlines specific behaviours that are required or prohibited. A code of conduct "lays out a basic set of principles." It explains why members of an organisation should behave in a certain way, what actions are prohibited, and how to distinguish between ethical and unethical behaviour.

 

•    Sexual harassment, racial intimidation, and viewing inappropriate or unapproved content on company computers might all be prohibited by a code of conduct. These are strict guidelines that are usually strictly enforced by leaders.

 

•    There is a lot of evidence that codes, along with other measures, have helped some organisations get out of the quagmire of scandal, and that they have helped many others build a healthier work environment and reputation.

 

•    Companies, governments, and organisations use codes of ethics to govern decision-making and codes of conduct to govern actions. Together, they are two of the most common ways for companies, governments, and organisations to self-regulate their decisions and actions.

 

•    Codes of ethics and conduct have proliferated in part as a result of growing public concern about how governments, organisations, and businesses conduct business and interact with the public.

 

•    A group's (e.g., staff or a professional group's) code of ethics and code of conduct define the ethical standards that must be followed in order to remain a member of the group. They are usually stated explicitly, and members are expected to accept them as a condition of employment or membership in the group.

 

•    Both codes are similar in that they try to encourage employees to engage in certain behaviours. Ethics guidelines attempt to influence decision-making by providing guidance on values and choices, whereas conduct regulations assert that certain specific actions are appropriate or inappropriate. In both cases, the goal is for employees to exhibit a limited range of acceptable behaviours.

 

•    Both types of behaviour codes are frequently found in organisations, or they are combined into a general ethics document that combines principles for appropriate behaviour with a list of actions that are required or prohibited.

 

1.    Codes of ethics are values statements that help people make decisions.

 

2.    Codes of Ethics are generally broad and non-specific, and are intended to provide a set of values or decision-making approaches that allow employees to make independent decisions about the best course of action.

3.    An organization's or profession's code of ethics is more in the form of a statement of values and beliefs that defines the organisation or group. The content of value statements is aspirational. Individuals who subscribe to such codes are accepted by the institution or organisation that cherishes the codes of ethics as long as they adhere to them.

 

4.    Codes of ethics are frequently made public.

 

1.     Codes of conduct are formal statements of ethical behaviour that serve as a guide to actions.

 

2.    Codes of Conduct usually don't require much judgement; you either obey or face a penalty, and the code lays out a fairly clear set of expectations for what actions are required, acceptable, and prohibited.

 

3.    On the other hand, the code of conduct translates values (documented in the code of ethics) into specific behavioural standards, keeping in mind the potential impact on stakeholders' interests.

 

4.    Codes of conduct are intended only for employees of a company.

 

•    The central government has revised its code of conduct for bureaucrats, requiring them to be politically neutral, honest, impartial, and uphold high ethical standards.

 

•    According to the amended rules, every member of the All India Services, which includes the IAS and IPS, must be courteous and responsive to the public, especially the weaker sections, and ensure accountability and transparency in the performance of his duties.

 

a.    Every member of the service must make decisions based solely on merit and in the public interest, and public resources must be used efficiently, effectively, and economically. 

 

b.    Every service member must make decisions, make recommendations, and make choices based solely on merit.

 

c.    Civil servants must not bind themselves financially or otherwise to any individual or organisation that could affect their ability to perform their official duties. 

 

d.    Civil servants must now declare any private interests they have that are related to their public duties, and take steps to resolve any conflicts in a way that protects the public interest.

 

e.    Civil servants are required by law to maintain confidentiality while performing their duties. Particularly where the information or disclosure may jeopardise the state's security, strategic, scientific, or economic interests, friendly relations with foreign countries, or lead to the incitement of an offence or the acquisition of illegal or unlawful gains by any person/entity. 

 

f.    Civil servants must carry out their responsibilities with a high level of professionalism, upholding the supremacy of the constitution, India's sovereignty and integrity, state security, public order, decency, and morality.

 

g.    Civil servants must act with integrity, impartiality, and fairness toward all people, and they must have compassion for the weaker members of society.

 

h.    Civil servants must maintain discipline while performing their duties and should be held accountable for carrying out lawful orders that have been properly communicated to them.