MY ETHICAL REFLECTION

Direction: Read the article below and make a reaction based on the lesson discussed.
What Are the Pros & Cons to Having a Written Code of ethics?
By: Debra Kraft
Source: https://work.chron.com/pros-cons-having-written-code-ethics-18187.html

An organization’s written code of ethics should outline the integrity of the business by
embracing common, core values. Company cultures that are grounded in ethical business
practices help build trust among various stakeholders. Internally, trust builds a positive
workplace environment among employees. Externally, trust builds solid relationship with
customers, suppliers, investors and the communities in which companies operate. A code of
ethics sets the stage for such a culture. But if it’s too vague, not followed properly or
improperly used, a code of ethics can have the opposite effect.

Writing vs. Living the Code

Writing a code of ethics does not automatically mean employees will adhere to it.
Managers should never believe the real work is done after the code of ethics has been written.
Releasing the document into the workplace is only the first step. Employees need to be aware
it’s out there. They need to read it, understand it and follow it. There is no value in a code of
ethics that isn’t followed it is up to management to ensure that employees are educated on
proper conduct as it pertains to their jobs and work relationships.

Using vs. Abusing the Code

Using the code of ethics properly builds a professional, ethical workplace, but abusing it
builds distrust that can contradict everything it stand for. Employees can abuse the code of
ethics of they use it to engage in personal agendas and vendettas, such as accusing colleagues
they dislike of working against the code. Managers can abuse the code by accusing of
employees of failing to live up to it during performance reviews, even if the employees have
followed it properly. To prevent abuse, all reports and accusations of ethics violation should be
investigated thoroughly and include tangible evidence that the code has been violated.

Personal Values vs. the Code

Personal values and integrity should augment and build upon the code, not stand apart
from it. A code of ethics is not a complete play-by-play rule book. It does not clearly define
everything everyone needs to make an ethical decision. If employees are not made aware of
this limitation, they could come believe that something is ethical because it is not expressly
covered in the code. Training and awareness programs should make it clear that question
should be brought to management or human resources representative if the code of ethics in
unclear with regard to specific situations.

Local vs. Global Code

A code of ethics does not provide standard for doing business outside the U.S could
allow for unethical business practices to occur during global projects. For example, employees
might be led to believe that standard modes of business in some parts of the require
undisclosed cash payments to government agents or other practices that lead to unfair
competition. Transacting such business opens the door to practices that can ruin the company’s
reputation. A code of ethics must be specific consistent across all known variables. For
companies already have a global footprint, the same code must apply to all allocation,
worldwide.

My Reaction on the Article:

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ETHICAL QUIZ
 I. Direction: Match Column A with Column B. write only the letter of the correct
answer on the space provided.

COLUMN A COLUMN B
____A___ 1. Means the act or manner of A. good governance
government
________ 2. Efficient, transparent, and B. transparency
equitable
________ 3. Protecting of humans rights and C. responsiveness
Civil liberties
________ 4. Making sure everyone is aware D. inclusivity
Of what is going on
________ 5. Combination of two inseparable E. values
Elements which are value and speed
________ 6. A key requisite of good governance F. moral intensity
________ 7. An individual’s standard of behavior G. frame of reference
________ 8. Amount that people observe an issue H. harmony
As an ethical one
________ 9. The way people at given a situation I. accountability
________ 10. Individuals are to be treated J. rule of law
With