Codes of Ethics

CODES OF ETHICS AS A TOOL OF INFORCING ETHICAL RELASHIONS IN THE WORKPLACE
      I. Definition of an Ethical Code 
      II. Why Have a Code of Ethics?
      III. Content of a Code of Ethics
      IV. Some Advice on Developing a Code of Ethics
      V. Examples of Codes of Ethics by industries (Group work for records managers, students etc)
      VI. Bibliography

      I. Definition of Ethical Code [1]
      An ethical code is adopted by an organization in an attempt to assist in understanding the difference between 'right' and 'wrong' and to apply this understanding while taking decisions.
      A code of ethics is a set of guidelines which are designed to set out acceptable behaviors for members of a particular group, association, or profession. Many organizations govern themselves with a code of ethics, especially when they handle sensitive issues like investments, health care, or interactions with other cultures. In addition to setting a professional standard, a code of ethics can also increase confidence in an organization by showing outsiders that members of the organization are committed to following basic ethical guidelines in the course of doing their work.
      According to Wallace, "   A code of ethics is a credo generally describing the highest values to which the company aspires to operate.' A code of ethics specifies the ethical rules of operation.
      Some business ethicists disagree that codes have any value. Usually they explain that too much focus is put on the codes themselves, and that codes themselves are not influential in managing ethics in the workplace. Many ethicists note that it's the developing and continuing dialogue around the code's values that is most important.
      Occasionally, employees react to codes with suspicion, believing the values are "motherhood and apple pie" and codes are for window dressing. But, when managing a complex issue, especially in a crisis, having a code is critical. Kniffin offers some... [continues]

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