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Ethical code

Ethical concept

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They are distinct from moral codes that may apply to the culture, education, and religion of a whole society. It is debated whether the politicians should apply a code of ethics, or whether it is a profession entirely discretionary, just subject to compliance with the law: however, recently codes of practice have been approved in this field.

Acts which violate ethical codes may also violate a law or regulation and can therefore be punishable at law or by government agency remedies.

Codes seek to define and delineate the difference between conduct and behavior that is malum in se, malum prohibitum, and good practice. Sometimes ethical codes include sections that are meant to give firm rules, but some offer general guidance, and sometimes the words are merely aspirational.

In sum, a code of ethics is an attempt to codify "good and bad behavior".

Corporate or business ethics

In business, a code of ethics will start by setting out the values that underpin the code and will describe an organization's obligation to its stakeholders. The code is publicly available and addressed to anyone with an interest in that organization's activities and the way it operates. It will include details of how the organization plans to implement its values and vision, as well as guidance to staff on ethical standards and how to achieve them. However, a code of conduct is generally addressed to and intended for the organization's leaders and staff. It usually sets out restrictions on behavior, and will be far more focused on compliance or rules than on values or principles.

In the United States, the Federal Acquisition Regulation (the federal rules concerned with government contracting) require contractors to "conduct themselves with the highest degree of integrity and honesty", and to this end demand that "contractors should have a written code of business ethics and conduct". The federal rule, built on earlier policies adopted by the Department of Defense, Veterans Affairs, and the Environmental Protection Agency, adds that "to promote compliance with such code of business ethics and conduct, contractors should have an employee business ethics and compliance training program and an internal control system".

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