Nature and Scope of Ethics — Definition

Definition

Ethics is the reasoned examination of what ought to be done and why a choice is right, fair or responsible. It considers duties, consequences, character and the interests of people affected by an action.

In public service, it helps an officer justify the use of authority and resources beyond personal preference. Ethics is related to law and custom, but neither a familiar practice nor a legally permitted choice automatically answers every moral question.

A useful ethical judgement connects accurate facts with defensible values and a practical response. It also remains open to scrutiny and correction when the facts or reasoning prove mistaken.