Phl323

System of Inquiry

University of Phoenix

System of Inquiry

“Ethics is a code of values which guide our choices and actions and determine the purpose and course of our lives,” stated Ayn Rand. Many companies have developed a code of ethics to help their employees understand the values of the company, what is ethically expected of them, legalities, and to regulate violations of ethics. This code must be critiqued to explore any areas of concern that should be addressed. By developing a system of inquiry, one will be able to see the basic framework of the code of ethics, implementation of the code, possible reactions from employees, and possible effects on the organization.

Basic Framework

Every company needs to establish a code of ethics to ensure all employees know what is expected of themselves and their fellow employees. The code acts as a guideline for the company. “An effective Code of Ethics establishes the ethical expectations for employees and management alike, and sets forth the mechanisms for enforcement and consequences of noncompliance” (Compliance Action, 2002). Whether or not this code is all-encompassing, easily readable, understood by all, and enforced throughout the company will determine the likelihood of the business’s success or failure.

Purpose and Values

A code of ethics needs to establish many different things in a very well-conceived manner. The purpose of the company needs to be explained so that the employees will have an understanding of the services provided by the company (B Corporation, 2007). The values of the company must also be stated so that employees know the beliefs and principles of the company. Each person was raised differently in one way or another, so it is important that the employees know the values of the company and there is a mutual understanding and acceptance.

Integrity, Productivity, Personal Behavior, and Legalities

Some of the other issues that need to be addressed are integrity, productivity, personal...