Code of Ethics

Ethical codesare adopted byorganizationsto assist their members oremployeesin understanding the difference betweenrightandwrongand in applying that understanding to their decisions. An ethical code generally refers to either a code ofbusiness ethics, acodes of conductfor employees, or a code of professional practice, and many organizations use the phrasesethical codeandcode of conductinterchangeably. Ethical codes are often adopted by management and also employers, not to promote a particularmoral theory, but rather because they are seen as pragmatic necessities for running an organization in a complex society in which moral concepts play an important part. Even organizations and communities that may be considered criminal in nature may have ethical codes of conduct, official or unofficial. They are distinct frommoral codesthat may apply to the culture, education, and religion of a whole society. It is debated whether the politicians should apply a code of ethics,[1]or whether it is a profession entirely discretionary, just subject to compliance with the law: however, recently codes of practice have been approved in this field.[2] Acts which violate ethical codes may also violate a law or regulation and can therefore be punishable at law or by government agency remedies.