...Human Values and Ethics in the Workplace Improving leadership and performance in the water education, supply and sanitation sectors © 2005 UN- HABITAT (www.unhabitat.org) and the Global Dharma Center (www.globaldharma.org). All rights reserved. UN(www.unhabitat.org) (www.globaldharma.org). 1 Imagine for a moment… You are planning a trip into a native, traditional territory for two weeks What kind of guide would you want to accompany you: Someone who has only read about the territory? Someone who has visited the territory themselves? Someone who has lived in the territory? Our agenda together Living in the native, traditional territory Identifying the relevance and benefits of human values at work Discovering your explicit and implicit / hidden human values strengths Developing trust by expressing purity and unity of thought, word, and action Applying human values in a practical way at work Our agenda together Guiding others through native, traditional territory Generating creative solutions to ethical issues at work related to water and sanitation, based on human values Establishing guiding principles for everyone to practice human values and ethics at work Being a champion of human values and ethics in the workplace In our work together… We will be focusing on how human values and ethics impact the way you do your work in waterrelated education, supply and sanitation: Your attitudes Your behaviour How you make decisions How you relate to others How...
Words: 1582 - Pages: 7
...Values and Ethics Professional values and ethics are the defining factors in making the right decisions in our careers- no matter what the situation is, no matter who is watching. When we become members of an organization, we are given a set of guidelines that define our conduct within the organization and, at times, outside the organization. We are encouraged to adhere to the guidelines, allowing us to promote the organization in a positive manner and to display our loyalty to the organization, thereby growing together professionally. The success of both the organization and the individual depends highly upon the values and ethics as they are defined and adhered to- doing what is right at all times. Values can be defined as things that are important to or valued by someone, either individually or organizationally. Professional values are the beliefs and principles that influence your behavior. Professional values, although different between organizations and individuals, may be extensions of your personal values and may include honesty, integrity, compassion, excellence, duty, accountability, and unselfishness. Ethics is not as easily defined as ethics depend on the individual- determined by law, religion, societal standards, or not knowing what ethics means. According to Webster’s New World College Dictionary, ethics is defined as “the study of standards of conduct and moral judgment; moral philosophy” and “the system or codes of morals of a particular person, religion...
Words: 275 - Pages: 2
...Values and Ethics: The Gateway to Career Success History in business has taught many lessons on how ethics and values, or lack thereof can transform an industry. The breakdown of values and ethics coupled with the lure of wealth and power among some business leaders has proven to be a recipe for failure. The highly publicized scandals in business ethics have accentuated the necessity for universities to prepare students to become ethically responsible leaders (Booth, 1995). In society, understanding and practicing the concepts of ethics and values is a component of success. In order for an organization to ensure an untarnished reputation for its ethical practices it must take a stance on developing a code of conduct for employees and managers to abide. In doing this, the organization must look at all contributing factors to ensure quality and a standard for the code of conduct. Each individual can maintain his or her own integrity to succeed in his or her careers. Positive role models who conscientiously follow their values and ethics are successful in their careers and have a beneficial effect on society. Values and ethics differ between cultures. Values are defined as a set of ideas concerning behavioral traits that are agreed upon either socially acceptable or not. These values are the cornerstone on which an individual’s decision making process hinges. Individuals armed with a good set of moral values tend to make more ethical decisions. Ethics are the questions that...
Words: 1289 - Pages: 6
...Value and Ethics are the middle or central part to any and every organization. They are broad terms that you can go on and on about when defining and describing value and ethics. Value can be defined or described as standards and principals which are which are worthy to utilize when passing judgment or determining what to consider desirable or undesirable. Naturally this is the middle ground in which we as an individual must determine in our own. Values can be freely chosen, value are a way of life and must be performed and cherished. Value is acknowledged in a person’s total growth. We have to take a totally different stand when it comes to making decisions on political and social of the world. How we portray ourselves to others and how we make judgment can best be described as value and ethics. Also our value and morals assist us in determining whether we are equal to others or morally competent. Value also influences us on how we think and believe in relations to others opinion and whether or not their opinion is worthy to challenge. Ethics can be define as standards in which one behaves and evaluated for their morality and lack for their judgment in decision making. Ethics serve as a guide to our judgment whether its bad, good , right and wrong to the choices we make in life. Ethics are standards of conduct, and can be based on moral duties and virtues. It is a concept of action and not the idea to think and argue about. Ethics is...
Words: 337 - Pages: 2
...VALUES AND ETHICS INTRODUCTION Values and ethics are central to any organization; those operating in the national security arena are no exception. What exactly do we mean by values and ethics? Both are extremely broad terms, and we need to focus in on the aspects most relevant for strategic leaders and decision makers. What we will first discuss is the distinctive nature of ethics for public officials; second, the forces which influence the ethical behavior of individuals in organizations; and third, explore the actions strategic leaders can take to build ethical climates in their organizations. THE CHARACTER OF VALUES AND ETHICS Values can be defined as those things that are important to or valued by someone. That someone can be an individual or, collectively, an organization. One place where values are important is in relation to vision. One of the imperatives for organizational vision is that it must be based on and consistent with the organization's core values. In one example of a vision statement we'll look at later, the organization's core values - in this case, integrity, professionalism, caring, teamwork, and stewardship- were deemed important enough to be included with the statement of the organization's vision. Dr. John Johns, in an article entitled "The Ethical Dimensions of National Security," mentions honesty and loyalty as values that are the ingredients of integrity. When values are shared by all members of an organization, they are extraordinarily...
Words: 4898 - Pages: 20
...Professional Values and Ethics Professional Values and Ethics Every individual wishes to be successful in his or her career, but being successful doesn’t come easy. To be successful in the working world, one must learn and perfect the theories of professional ethics and values. Once they are developed, you will learn not only how to better yourself and people around you, but also your personal and professional life. It is important to learn the difference between values and ethics, and how they can affect your everyday life. These skills will be the framework for being successful in your career and personal life. Values Ethics Ethics becomes a major issue in the workplace; if professional ethics are practiced the business rises to success. People who are truly committed to their job put their professional ethics and values to the test. What are Work Ethics (2002-2009) states: In other words, do on to others as you would have them do on to you. Your personal values and ethics should be carried with you to the workplace where they become professional. Most companies have a code of ethics which state certain “rules” employees should abide by. According to Schwartz (2005), a code of ethics includes moral values such as;trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and citizenship. Trustworthiness Responsibility Responsibility is something employers truly value. Being accountable for your actions and taking responsibility for your mistakes shows dedication. Responsibility...
Words: 840 - Pages: 4
...Values and Ethical Decision Making MGT/521 August 13, 2012 Values and Ethical Decision Making Values are beliefs of what is right and wrong, whereas ethics are the application of those values into morally acceptable behavior. Following the many organizational scandals of the past few years, a new emphasis has been placed on managing businesses ethically. By operating ethically, businesses can earn a good reputation, gain customers, decrease employee turnover, prevent lawsuits, and avoid government intervention (Nickels, 2010). To make ethical decisions in the corporate environment managers must become aware of their own values and ethics and how they align or conflict with those of the organization they represent (Ethics Awareness Inventory). In studying the similarities and differences between Ben & Jerry’s organizational values and those of Team A, it was determined that when ethics and values align with the organization, it makes you a better employee. Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream was founded in May 1978. Since its formation, it has developed a unique three tiered mission statement focused on social, economic, and product goals. Its social mission is to continuously create new ways to improve the lives of people locally, nationally, and internationally. Economically, they operate with the goal of increasing profits for stake- holders, and expanding career opportunities for their employees. The product mission is to make, distribute, and sell natural ice...
Words: 1045 - Pages: 5
...Ethics - Ethics Imagine a 15 year old student in philosophy class. After discussing why should you or shouldn't you judge other societies, and getting in depth with ethics, the teacher decides to tell a story to the class. She says"..there is a tribe in the Amazon(Brazil) were they show love and respect by cutting body parts.It would be a good sign if your father cuts a finger of a son...." she then asked the class ".... if you end up in the Amazon, would you stop a father cutting a sons finger because in your society is wrong.... Ethics - Ethics Ethics is a topic in which many people or groups of people tend to disregard. There can be many reasons supporting the decisions that business firms or individuals make. In many cases, money or monetary gain can influence people to do unethical things either in the workplace or in everyday life. Ethics can be defined as beliefs that distinguish right from wrong. These beliefs are normally passed down from family so you make the right decisions in the future. Morals are also on the same line as ethics when talking about doing the right thing.... Ethics Officer - ... A code of ethics also helps to empower employees to report unethical behavior witnessed by coworkers or executives within the corporation. Ethics Administrative Agency Another proposal is that the government needs to form an organization that will strictly investigate any serious claims of unethical behavior. Many people may argue that the government already over regulates...
Words: 5724 - Pages: 23
...Experiencing the learning process of ethics has been a fascinating journey for my mind. I have broadened my horizons to the ideas and thoughts of great values from this class.To dissect the mind of great achievers from the past has changed my way of life. We can learn to appreciate and characterize persons way of life through their distinction of values. Since the first week of this class I have managed to grow in the way I think about ethical decision making. After reading and analyzing different theories my views have been focused on Aristotle and Confucius. I noticed a lot of the ideas they had were already instilled in my life. The way my family grew me up with such a balanced foundation made me the person I am today. To focus on life's true virtues and the backbone of a family has made me a stronger individual.I take these values with me everywhere I go and in everything I do. I strongly believe you are what you think. Whatever you are doing,whatever your feel, or want are determined by the quality of your thinking. With ethics I have leaned to control this process and open my mind to new ideas. Thinking effectively gives you greater control of your life and the world around you.You can use your mind to achieve your goals as well as enhancing your life. Everyday work and life is a sequence of ideas, values, and thinking. Ethics helps to raise your decision making abilities by creating a pattern of conscious choices. These choices and value can have an impact in our life...
Words: 699 - Pages: 3
...Ethics and Values of the GA Department of Human Resources, Division of Developmental Disabilities Janice Johnson LDR 520 – Organizational Ethics Instructor: Dr. Bahaudin Mujtaba 4/28/04 University of Phoenix Ethics and Values 1 Ethics and Values of the GA Department of Human Resources, Division of Developmental Disabilities The Georgia Department of Human Resources serves people of varying ages, ranging from adolescents to the geriatric, and those individuals with the most severe problems. This department is the contact point for those individuals in need of treatment for mental illness, addictive diseases, or substance abuse. Georgia is the home of seven regional hospitals, twenty-five community service boards, and numerous private providers. Not only does the department treat these individuals, but also they are screened for admission to state hospitals, and are given follow-up care upon discharge (Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Addictive Diseases, 2004). Various different community-based services are available that promote the recovery for individuals afflicted with mental illness and addiction, and the development of independent living skills necessary for...
Words: 1213 - Pages: 5
...Professional values and ethics are the defining factors in making the right decisions in our careers- no matter what the situation is, no matter who is watching. When we become members of an organization, we are given a set of guidelines that define our conduct within the organization and, at times, outside the organization. We are encouraged to adhere to the guidelines, allowing us to promote the organization in a positive manner and to display our loyalty to the organization, thereby growing together professionally. The success of both the organization and the individual depends highly upon the values and ethics as they are defined and adhered to- doing what is right at all times. Values can be defined as things that are important to or valued by someone, either individually or organizationally. Professional values are the beliefs and principles that influence your behavior. Professional values, although different between organizations and individuals, may be extensions of your personal values and may include honesty, integrity, compassion, excellence, duty, accountability, and unselfishness. Ethics is not as easily defined as ethics depend on the individual- determined by law, religion, societal standards, or not knowing what ethics means. According to Webster’s New World College Dictionary, ethics is defined as “the study of standards of conduct and moral judgment; moral philosophy” and “the system or codes of morals of a particular person, religion, group, profession...
Words: 274 - Pages: 2
...Personal Values and Business Ethics Strong values and ethics, deeply ingrained in all levels of an organization, are critical to success. My personal values and the business ethics I developed throughout my career represent who I am in all that I do, continuing to make me successful in the US Army and a suitable operations manager at Kudler Fine Foods. My Values and Ethics I have served in the ranks of the US Army for more than 15 years. Along the way, I developed a strong sense of family, responsibility, respect, and integrity that shapes my personal and professional decisions. That my values closely align with those of the US Army is no simple coincidence. In fact, there is a strong correlation between the success of an organization, the individuals within, and this alignment of values. John Allison, the CEO of Branch Banking & Trust Corporation for more than 20 years, acknowledges that the firm’s values are deeply ingrained within his successful organization. He notes that the all levels of the management team reinforce the values of the organization, and although those at the entry-level may not be able to articulate them as readily, they are very aware of the influences of the values (Parnell, Dent, & Allison 2009). In the case of the Army, a strong promotion of family is critical to our success. Because our job entails so much hardship, it is vitally important to honor and preserve the family bond whenever possible – otherwise, the hardships would be...
Words: 993 - Pages: 4
...Ethics and Values As professionals we face many ethical dilemmas on a daily basis. The way we resolve these dilemmas determines the overall quality of our lives and the well-being of those affected by our actions. Therefore, as professionals we should be accountable as a society for our decisions. We have our personal values, things that are important to or are valued by someone, and knowing what is right from what is wrong. It is up to the rest of us to evaluate our behavior by our principles and our principles by our own conceptions of ethics. Professionals compose partnerships with their clients and with their employers in which all parties must make ethical decisions. Sometimes you have to make a compromise and forego your personal ethics. Some ethics and values are more important that the others. You have to learn to prioritize based on importance. Individual business practices have their own set of values regarding issues like privacy and integrity. These values should be respected by all individuals who work in that organization whether they like it or not since it’s their job. As a society we judge people based on their morals, whereas we respect people at work for their ethics and professional values. Work place ethics demand an employee to show integrity and respect towards the business. In professions like engineering, and business management, decisions are made that affect large numbers of people without their consent and/or knowledge. By circumscribing...
Words: 382 - Pages: 2
...Values and Ethics Candice Ward MGT 317 04/20/2015 Values and Ethics Personal and cultural values can create a problematic issue in order to make a business decision. Personal values are what each individual holds dear to them living the types of lives that he or she like and would like to lead. Cultural are set on traditions handed down from generation to generation to preserve a way of living that each culture holds dear and true to them. Trying to intertwine these types of values when making professional and personal decisions in ones life can create a very stressful situation. Stand by personal values and do not deviate then there are not too many difficult decisions to face. Values are individual truths and injustices that fathers and mothers implant in their youngsters. Values come off to be an individual's outline or a mission statement that they try not to deviate from. People can also learn values as they get older and are in their own right and wrong situations. Values vary from person to person but people have to live and learn to discover what values that he or she hold very dear and close to them. Your values are also intertwined with morals and ethics. Personal values are the principles that individuals have to live and learn in order to establish what is factual and what...
Words: 413 - Pages: 2
...Values Individuals are not born with an ability to understand moral values and apply moral standards. As people mature, their physical, emotional, and cognitive abilities develop and so does their ability to deal with moral issues. Aristotle, an early Greek thinker who proposed one of the most influential theories of ethical thinking in the West, argued that our moral abilities which he called virtues or morally good habits, develop solely through constant practice and repetition, in the same way, he argued, humans acquire their moral abilities and when they are taught and habituated by their families and communities to think, feel and behave in morally appropriate ways. Such vitally important human values as courage, generosity, self-control, temperance, self-control, sociability, modesty, fairness or justice, are all virtues that he discussed and that he believed were acquired through this kind of habituation. And although in order to develop such values one must spare a lot of his time and effort, once they are acquired virtuous behavior comes easily and naturally. Recently, a considerable number of thinkers have returned to Aristotle's views, claiming that we should place greater emphasis on the development of the moral values. Those who have advanced this claim hold that contemporary philosophy stresses too much action what people should and should not do - and that much more attention must be paid to people's character - what a human being should be. Some of them even...
Words: 2216 - Pages: 9
