10.5 Why Ethics?

In Chapter 14, Speaking of Ethics and Values in Organizations, p. 411, the authors discuss the reasons why we need ethics in our lives. We obviously need ethics in the communications we engage in. If we can't trust the other individual, then we will eventually come to a stand-still and stop the conversation. We need ethics in business so that consumers can feel confident that they are dealing with individuals that have the greater concern for the community in mind. We need ethics in our government. We need to have the belief that our representatives and those whom have chosen to protect us are held to a higher standard. These public sector employees need to be mindful of the responsibility they have taken upon themselves to represent their communities.

In the end it all comes down to one thing: be a good citizen. If you are a good citizen you'll be respectful of the laws, you'll be tolerant of your neighbors, and you'll make choices that will further the well being of the community at large.