Question

What might be considered “ethical” is difficult to define for two reasons: (1) individuals might draw their ethics from vastly different religious, social, or moral paradigms, and (2) many see ethical behavior in a social context rather than in an individual context. Assume you are a senior officer in your company. What ethical paradigms would you want to be held to by your company? What ethical paradigms would you choose for yourself? (A well-written two page document should do it.)

Answer 1

It is rightly said in the question that interpretation of ethics is different for different people because of differences in their religious, social and cultural construct. In a professional setting wherein I am employed by a firm, the ethical expectations would be primarily be concerned with the discharge of responsibilities. In that sense ethics would be dictated by having to do my job in an honest and transparent manner. At all times, this would also mean that decisions have been taken after following due process and avoiding any conflicts of interest whatsoever. Moreover ethical responsibility also would involve placing the firm's interest on top priority and avoiding as well as mitigating instances which might lead to agency costs.

As far as personal choice is concerned, sense of ethics would involve being true to myself and always giving my best to the work that has been assigned. Also it would imply extending full co-operation to my team members and giving due credit where due without trying to garner any attention or reward which is not deserved. Overall it would imply putting the interests of the company, team ahead of myself even in times of hardship and always striving to get maximum social and community benefits.