Values and Ethics Values, Ethics,

Values and Ethics

Values, Ethics, and Choice

Values and ethics are two terms that are used quite often in the professional world, often interchangeably. A better and more differentiated understanding of these often abstracted concepts, however, allows for a much more effective and dynamic comprehension of how they affect -- and are affected by -- the choices made by an individual. All choices truly are values-based; the choices that an individual makes and their end results reflect the values of that individual. Though the same description could be applied to an understanding of ethics, in a professional context ethics are best understood as the set(s) of values that inspire/require choices based on "good" values -- those that promote choices and behavior that is not only legal, but that respects the spirit of fair play and shows proper consideration for all entities involved in and/or affected by each choice made. To put these definitions succinctly, values are the parameters, good or bad, by which an individual makes choices, and ethics are the externally agreed upon system of values that promotes integrity and general societal/public benefit.

There are many different factors and sources for a given individuals specific set of values. Integrity is learned early in life, and the environment of one's education -- especially at the university and graduate level -- can be hugely determinative in the development of an individual's values and ethics. Work environment, too, is a major influence on values. In companies and/or industries where integrity, honesty, and the restraint of greed are all demanded and given proper respect and reward, these values will be encouraged and developed in others entering the company/field. In other circumstances, where rewards is given for any behavior that turns a profit no matter how unscrupulous, such values might not even be tolerated. Ultimately, values are internally derived, however, and require dedication to personal principles.

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 career was over, and his family forced to fend for themselves during his time in jail. 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.