Day 58 – Q 1.Can code of ethics strengthen ethical and moral values in governance? Critically examine.

1. Can code of ethics strengthen ethical and moral values in governance? Critically examine. 

क्या नैतिक संहिता शासन में नैतिक मूल्यों को मजबूत कर सकती है? समालोचनात्मक से जांच करें।

Introduction:

A code of ethics document may outline the mission and values of the business or organization, how professionals are supposed to approach problems, the ethical principles based on the organization’s core values and the standards to which the professional is held.

Body

The main purpose of a code of ethics is to guide all managerial decisions, creating a common framework upon which all decisions are founded. This can aid to create a unified understanding of the boundaries within an organization and the standards set for interacting with external stakeholders.

Limited role of code of ethics:

• The one who has to ensure that the code isn’t violated, may be corrupt or unethical.
• A code of ethics may be defined exhaustively but its implementation may not be that effective.
• Loopholes– Not everything can be defined by a code.
• Code of ethics may not be updated as per the needs of the present society.
• A code of ethics can tackle corrupt mind but not corrupt heart.
• It is not binding. This reduces its effectiveness.
• Other constraints such as cultural and legal challenges exist

Relevance of code of ethics:

Despite its limited effectiveness, the code of ethics is very relevant.

• A code of ethics can help company to show customers that it values integrity, define the terms of ethical behaviour at work and guide decision-making in difficult situations i,e., It helps one in situations of dilemma. One may follow the code and function ethically.
• A formal, well-communicated code of ethics can assist to shield a company’s status and legal standing in case of a breach of ethics by an individual worker.
• Sets benchmark for appropriate behaviour. Provides a framework for reference in case discretionary powers are to be used.
• The relevance is more in present society where values and ethics are on decline either seemingly because of greater awareness or in reality.

Way forward:

• Right ethical training
• Value based education at school level.
• Inducting righteous people in the system

Conclusion:

Overall, it can be said that code of ethics is desired, it acts a guiding beacon. But given its limited effectiveness we need to ensure that the ones who are meant to use the code are themselves righteous because any code can only discipline someone but not transform him/her into an ethical person.