Personal Code of Ethics Essay

After sp final stageing much sequence considering this assignment, I whole step now that checking a polity of morals is an key occasion to do. The introductory get hold of intercourseledge of what is dear and what is wrong thread up our inside code of ethics and the lift out way to realise what those internal lamlines argon is to create a written code to follow. This paper leave exempt why I believe growing a code of ethics is grand, racylight the motives behind what I base my day-after-day decisions and honorable behavior, crystalise the outcomes and consequences that dep maneuver cut attribute if the code is non followed, and outline in list figure my suffer in-person ethics.I conceptualise that good behavior is an important quality for passel especi altogethery those who be leaders. If I plan on being a leader in my life story, it is important to know when to take a stand on difficult issues. I crowd outt lead if I am irresolute or indecisive. I am non saying though, that I shouldnt be open to new arguments. M either of the more or less signifi natest discussions ( estimable and early(a)wise) have smashed points on both sides, and all choices should be considered cargonfully. Ethics inspire trust, loyalty, and fixive, meaning(prenominal) relationships.If I am going to stag a difference, I must(prenominal) set high ethical examples for others to follow. My personal code of ethics includes non solitary(prenominal) how I wish to demand myself on a daily basis, plainly withal as a nonrecreational in the sector of broadcast journalism. Much of my own code reflects on that of the Society of overlord Journalists (Andy Schotz, 2007). I intrust to re-examine this during my future career and perhaps regular make necessary changes that go forth for keep it as up to engagement as possible and relevant to the field at that time. The times and engine room are endlessly changing, and rewardfully, so should my c ode as to reflect these needful changes.The basis for my own code is somewhat conflicting. I sense myself sagaciousness and believing in m any concepts and views of ethics. I ordain seek here(predicate) to explain the discernmenting behind my motives and hopefully it go forth be do clear. First, I believe strongly in utilitarianism ethics (Neher & Sandin, 2007). I think this concept drives m whatever of us in our big decisions, I know I consider what would affect other people when I make a decision, especially if the decision is to be made on behalf of a group. I would neverknowingly undermine, harm, or sabotage everyone in any way, even if it is to stand a great gain for myself. I try to consider what servicings the greater good, partly be parkway my backwardground is in organizational lead and functionality (and is thitherfore what I am accustomed to), what stands to benefit the group as hygienic as stands to benefit me as a part of the group. I alike, however, agre e with the ethical egoism perspective.The ethical egoism perspective, of course, is ground upon the view that behavior which advances long-run self interests is ethical (Neher & Sandin, 2007). Ethical egoism, I think, comes off harsh and selfish, exactly I do not mean it in a cut-throat sense. I know that this view of ethics promotes the pursuit of self interests without imagine to its effect on other people, but I think that it tends to imply a negative connotation. I do not wish to take it to an uttermost(prenominal) of cruelty or heartlessness. I only mean that my responsibilities are my responsibilities, not anyone elses, and I need to be the one to take care of them, in commit to do that I have to couch my task above doing something for someone else.This includes advancing my career, this is not to say I go out advisedly undermine or hurt someone, but I will sketch up for my best interests and towards advancing my career, and caring for my (hypothetical, future) fam ily. For example, I will do boththing in my power to earn a promotion, more so that I would help a competitor for the same promotion. I think that we butt joint give way Kants categorical imperative, and because this concept has the potential to become utilitarianism. If e rattlingone strived to do what was best for them and those they loved, wouldnt society be give away off? I think it would.The application of the code requires good sense and judgment, and its use may depend on certain situations. Individual judgment calls on ethical decisions may be necessary. These decisions will probably depend on several(prenominal) tones, including but not limited to, the presence or absence of shared out values and opinions, political views, and the individuals involved in the situation. As inconceivable as it may seem, my ideal theme of personal ethical behavior then would be a blend of these two themes. When I am go about with a problem that requires a decision based on ethics, I h ope to scratch line ask myself a series of questions to help guide my decision. They will consist of, is thisright? Is it fair? Who gets hurt in the end? Would I be comfortable if the details of my decision were reported on the front page of your passwordpaper?This code of ethics cannot and does not look for to assure constant behavior or resolve all disputes, it does, however, tin a standard to which I aim and once against which my actions can be judged. Nevertheless, there is no judge to determine guilt of breaking a get hold in the code, except myself. Consequences of a violation of a reign over will include self inflicted punishment. The harshest punishment comes from ones self, and in this fibre the penalty will be disappointment, and shame. I would find it particularly toilsome to live with the knowledge that I knowingly broke a overlook in my own code of ethics, because I feel that these are important in my life. The internal punishment that I would put upon myself i n the form of guilt heavily outweighs simply doing the right thing in the first place, no matter how tedious or daunting it may be at the time. Owning up to a mistake or intentional rule violation to the harmed individual will also be a penalty.The basic ideas of this code of ethics are personal behavior, continual education, demonstrating a professional attitude and accountability, decency and treating others every bit, respect to me and others maintain self direction and motivation, and truth. The code is not in order of importance as every guideline is equally as important and none are intended to be of better value than any other. I have arranged them into themes. Points 1-6 deal with responsibility and professionalism at work (in any setting), points 7-12 discuss the importance of journalistic ethics, and lastly points 13-16 are more personal life applications of this code.Jessica Dirrs Personal edict of Ethics1.I will maintain the highest level of professional standards as a n employee of my follow and conduct myself accordingly at all times.2.I will respect other peoples time and be punctual and prepared daily.3.I will accept the duties that I have been assigned and collaborate with others in a spirit of teamwork to complete the tasks at hand.4.I will always work to develop my own professional skills, continue my education, and to be aware of changes in the field, and characterize my own practices accordingly.5.I will be honest and trustworthy. I believe that cartwheel is an important part of trust, and trust is congenital not only at work, but in personal lives as well.6.I will display a high moral level and not take part in any behaviors or activities that might reduce my value to the company for which I am employed.7.I will honor confidentiality whenever necessary or requested, not only in my career, but also in my personal relationships and trusted people (Radio-Television news show Directors association, 2000).8.I will thoroughly check the f acts on any tosh and tramp all sources, and will never present questionable or treasonably information.9.I will promote equal access and fortune without regard to race, gender, nationality, ability or other quality.10.I will strive to approach all assignments with an unbiased attitude and strive to gather evidence fairly and accurately (Andy Schotz, 2007).11.I will not let sponsorship, political efforts, or advertisers shape or change my news stories. In accordance, I will not admit the benefit of ownership or management influence the content of the news stories. (Radio-Television discussion Directors Association, 2000)12.I will never plagiarize or take realisation for others ideas or work.13.I will strive to not cause harm to anyone.14.I will admit any and all mistakes and make every effort to correct them quickly.15.I will make every flack to try to and allow people to give me information without interrupting or arguing with them.16.I will avoid being rude, and demonstrat ing the appearance of big(p) taste.I would like to flip ones wig on these points. The first few (points 1- 6) deal with a general work ethic that could be applicable in any business or career setting. I strongly believe that my work ethic comes from my upbringing. My father, who is a business owner, instilled this strong value in me at an early age. I driveed to respect others time and efforts. I saw how a undivided person could affect how the rest of the day works. I also have seen firsthand the effects that one persons negligence can have on anothers experiences. I think that this block out of experience with the consequences on other side of the actions makes my work ethic parcel of land of the code more personal.Also, I learned at a very young age how to act professionally and the There is a time and place for certain behavior concept. When I would accompany him on his rounds (by this I mean we would travel from store to store and he would do inspections, and other manager ial duties, so I was not allowed to misbehave) I would have to conduct myself with a certain demeanor and respect the employees and my father. I knew that my actions were not needfully reflective on myself, but more so reflective on him. I felt that if I misbehaved he would lose an authority or respect by his employees. The one time I deviated from this standard I wasnt reprimanded per se, but I did realize the consequences of my actions, I felt a shift in the status quo, and disappointment in myself more than anything. At the age of seven, I knew the importance of professional conduct and hold square to that lesson even today.Often, in my undergraduate career, I was assigned group projects, most of which one or two people ( plebeianly myself) ended up doing the intensity of the work. I suppose I brought this upon myself to ensure that the project would be completed, also I was untrusting of others to do it right a.k.a. my way. In hindsight this was not the best course of action, as it not only brought more workload on myself, but it hurt the spirit of teamwork in our class, and the other members suffered a qualifying of the knowledge to be gainedby collaborating on the project. I think that this can be applicable in workplace situations, as often tasks are assigned to teams and collaborating colleagues. This rule is in place to remind me that in order for a project or task to be the best it can be, teamwork is necessary. Also it will help me maintain pick up over my perfectionism and manage freak personality. By allowing me to be open to suggestions I am permit down barriers that I have created that ultimately hinder my personal and professional development more than protect myself.The field of news and communications is perpetually and rapidly changing (Bogart, 1968). I hope to never be so closed minded that I am not willing to learn more, new and different techniques and styles. Often, it appears that members in this industry that get left in the pas t with outdated techniques arent of value to the station, and eventually lose their jobs. I dont fatality that to happen to me. Therefore, I will always be open minded and eager to learn new engineering and techniques for which to better my career. The concept of being honest and trustworthy is relatively simple. I do believe that honesty is an important part of trust, and trust is essential not only at work, but in personal lives as well. In order to maintain that trust, I will not do anything or act in a way that will unwrap a trust that I have with someone.Also, the idea of displaying a high moral level is reasonably straightforward. I will not take part in any activities that might make me look deplorable to my company. This includes any and all illegal activities or even something that is unprofessional or not representative of my usual character. I have certain, and very special(prenominal) boundaries which I will not cross, and those are clear. I do on the other hand reco gnize that mistakes happen, and sometimes (usually when prompted by high levels of emphasis or emotion) I act not in accordance with my usual demeanor. In the event that this happens, I will try to prevent this from occurring in a negative manner that may affect another person, and surely not at work.The following (points 7-12) are related specifically to my career in journalism and news reporting. First, I stated that I will honor confidentiality whenever necessary or requested, not only in my career, but also in my personal relationships and trusted people. Confidentiality is a inept topic. Some would argue that it isnt necessary in the news, especially if an arrogant reporter fabricates their facts. I have learned that for better, or for worse, confidentiality is an important aspect in news (Radio-Television News Directors Association, 2000). Some interviewers and some sources require it, it allows for an anonymity that might afford them the freedom to say what they intend to or want to without fearing the repercussions of identifying ones self.However most important to the news field, it is also useful in personal life. Often, people express something to another in confidence which means they trust you to not relay the information to anyone else. This goes back to trust and honesty, and I believe that it is an integral part of ethics. Leading from the confidentiality theme, I will thoroughly check the facts on any story and verify all sources, and will never present questionable or false information. Studies have shown the effects of confidentiality and falsifying sources in the news (Wulfemeyer, 1982), and I find it appalling that a professional journalist would make up a story and claim that she had gave her sources confidentiality. I will never under any circumstances act in that manner.The next three are again pretty clear-cut. I will support equal access and opportunity (without regard to race, gender, nationality, ability or other quality). I do n ot believe in (or very much understand) the concept of discrimination based on differences. I think to do so is demonstrating of ones own ignorance and closed mindedness. I then go onto say that I will strive to approach all assignments with an unbiased attitude and attempt to gather evidence fairly and accurately (Andy Schotz, 2007).I understand that a bias comes built into all of us, but in the effort to drive completely factual news stories, I will try to put any natural bias aside. Also, I will never allow any alteration or censorship of material produced for any reason other than common decency or personal judgment. Corporate sponsorship and political motivations and do not drive the news, and should not be a foundation upon which our stories are based (Radio-Television News Directors Association, 2000). Also, I will never plagiarize or take credit for others ideas or work.The final discussion section of my personal code of ethics (points 13-16) highlights personal guidelines and standards. First of all, I will strive to not cause harm to anyone. Of course I know that some actions (even if they are done with good intent, which may include any actions that complete assigned tasks or stories) could potentially cause harm accidentally. If this happens, I will try to remedy or relieve the effects as much as I can. In an effort to avoid accidental harm I will be sure to consider any and all potential outcomes my decisions might have an effect on. I will give credit where credit is due when I am assisted with projects. Also, following this, I will admit any and all mistakes and make every effort to correct them quickly. I hope to never be so proud that I am unwilling to admit that I have made a mistake, we are all only charitable and it is bound to happen from time to time.And finally, I will make every attempt to listen to and allow people to give me information without interrupting or arguing with them, and I will avoid being rude, and demonstrating the a ppearance of bad taste. This is for my own sake, as I am known sometimes to be stubborn and set in my ways. I need to practice the art of patience and listening without interrupting someone. This one might be hard to do. However, in accordance with being open to others opinions I must first be willing to let go of total control and allow others to give their input. I always strive to be gracious and courteous in every situation, and in doing so showing respect for the people and situation with which I am involved. I feel this is a great tool in personal life as well as professional.In conclusion, I hope that by setting this code in place, I will better myself and my career. I also hope that it allows me the opportunity to lead by example, and that others will feel so do to practice good ethical decisions and practices. I also hope that by outlining these ethics I can be better aware of my own actions and whether or not what I ultimately decide to do is the right decision ethically and personally. I tried to clarify why developing a code of ethics is important, I emphasized the foundation to what I base my daily decisions and behavior, I stated the outcomes and consequences that will take place if the code is not followed, and I explained in detail my own personal ethics.BibliographyAndy Schotz. (2007). Society of Professional Journalists Code of Ethics. Retrieved September 22, 2007, from Society of Professional Journalists http//www.spj.org/ethicscode.aspBogart, L. (1968, December). ever-changing News Interests and the News Media. The Public Opinion Quarterly , pp. 560-574.Fackler, M., Christians, C. G., & Ferr, J. P. (1993). Good News Social Ethics and the Press. New York Oxford University Press.Neher, W. W., & Sandin, P. J. (2007). Communicating Ethically character, duties, consequences, and relationships. Boston Pearson Education, Inc.Radio-Television News Directors Association. (2000, September 14). Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct. Retrieved Sept ember 23, 2007, from Radio-Television News Directors Association http//www.rtnda.org/pages/media_items/code-of-ethics-and-professional-conduct48.phpWulfemeyer, T. K. (1982). The Use of Anonymous Sources and Related Ethical Concerns in Journalism A Comparison of the Effects of the Janet Cooke/Washington Post Incident on the Policies and Practices of voluminous Newspapers and Television Stations. Athens The Association for Education in Journalism.