Last Updated: February 3, 2022 3:30:12 PM PST Learn why ethics awareness is important to you and to UCSD. Acting ethically is the right thing to do, but it's not always easy. Often, conforming to a high standard of conduct is not about clear-cut right and wrong decisions, but choosing the "lesser of two evils." Some decisions require that you prioritize and choose between competing ethical values and principles. Ethical decision-making is based on core character values like trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and good citizenship. Ethical decisions generate ethical behaviors and provide a foundation for good business practices. See a model for making ethical decisions. It will provide you with a framework and practical strategies as you make decisions. Overview
Public employees are expected to be examples of responsible citizenship. Employees of the University have a responsibility to make all professional decisions based on merit, unimpeded by conflicting personal interests. We are expected to avoid even the appearance of impropriety. Our reputation is important because it affects the University's ability to attract students, faculty, and staff. Our reputation also impacts the quality of research performed, the community's perception of us, and our standing as a renowned public institution.
Below are some consequences of unethical behavior:
Six key ethical values can help you build character in yourself and others. TrustworthinessDo what you say you'll do. A person who is trustworthy exhibits the following behaviors:
RespectTreat others better than they treat you.
ResponsibilityDo what you are supposed to do. A person who is responsible exhibits the following behaviors:
FairnessPlay by the rules. A person who is fair exhibits the following behaviors:
CaringShow you care. A person who is caring exhibits the following behaviors:
CitizenshipDo your share. A person who is a good citizen exhibits the following behaviors:
Copyright 2000 Josephson Institute of Ethics
The "Character-Based Decision-Making Model" model, developed by the Josephson Institute of Ethics, can be applied to many common problems and can also be used by most individuals facing ethical dilemmas. It involves three steps:
Ethical decision-making refers to the process of evaluating and choosing among alternatives in a manner consistent with ethical principles. In making ethical decisions, it is necessary to perceive and eliminate unethical options and select the best ethical alternative. The process of making ethical decisions requires:
Good decisions are both ethical and effective:
Copyright 2002 Josephson Institute of Ethics
Source: Josephson Institute of Ethics
Making ethical choices requires the ability to make distinctions between competing options. Here are seven steps to help you make better decisions:
Before making a difficult decision, consider asking yourself the following questions to see if you are on ethical thin ice.
Copyright 2000 Josephson Institute of Ethics |