Though the concepts of professional values and ethics are relatively simple and straightforward, the effects that the choices made with different values and ethics have are quite far reaching and complex. No matter what specific values or ethical systems are being applied to a given situation, there are certain limitations to the actions and behaviors that can be taken and the choices that can be made. For instance, the case of price fixing between two major soda manufacturers and distributors could have been handled in two ways, each with its own set of short- and long-term effects on te careers of the individuals involved. The decision to engage in price fixing led to the imprisonment of at least one of the men; though the short-term effects lived up to the promise of a more lucrative career, security for the executive's family, and other benefits, in the long-term his...
On the other hand, one can consider a typical whistle-blowing scenario. Though fears of retribution, lack of security and short-term financial loss prevent many employees from speaking out about unethical situations, many modern whistle-blowers have gone on to high paying careers in integrity-minded companies, and their commitment to their ethical values ended up serving them well both on principle and pragmatically.
Developing professional ethics and values, as well as maintaining these values and living up to the principles behind them, is a life-long process. As new situations present new challenges to an individuals and their values, new decisions and developments must be made. Only by continuing to pay attention to one's principles and values can professional ethics be maintained.
