Applied Ethics
In the early 1970s and out of self-interest, I began studying ethics as a core subject of my philosophical pursuit. Ethics investigate both moral ideas and moral practices, as we live and let live. Society has evolved moral principles, rules, actions governing individual or institutional acts or omissions: which things are good or bad, which actions are right or wrong and what ought to be done.
Professional ethics governs the conduct of professionals in their fields of professional practice. The codes of conduct of professional bodies address structurally client-professional relationships, the duties of professionals in their activities, third party relationships eg public service and advertising, with the consequential view to producing good outcomes for direct beneficiaries such as clients as well as maintaining the integrity of professions. Ethical particulars include the professional's obligation to keep client confidences, candour towards the judicious tribunals, truthfulness in statements to others and professional independence.
It is with such a philosophical and professional mindset that I am learning from a professional body's Code of Conduct. The Code has chapters covering the core conducts expected from its members, and annexes detailing ethical particulars. All these represent the body's ethical value, attitude, judgment and guidance on moral standards and norms, to be applied in the profession.
Applied ethical moral standards and norms may be based on the actions themselves, or the actions' consequences applied to real-life situations. They are specific right things to do to the right person in the right manner at the right time in the right context for the right reason. Applying the virtuous habits and behaviours, I believe, would not only motivate professionals to realize their full potential, but also to lead good and happy lives!