Q1(b). Distinguish between ‘code of ethics’ and ‘code of conduct’ with suitable examples. (150 words) 10
Answer
Code of ethics and code of conduct are the standards that a group must adhere to, so as to remain the member of an organisation. Code of ethics is a set of principles which influence the judgement while the code of conduct is a set of guidelines that influence employee’s actions.
The code of ethics describes the core values of the organisation that guide in decision-making. It includes values like honesty, political neutrality and impartiality which must guide an officer while taking a decision.
Code of conduct is the actual set of rules or ethical standards, issued by the organisation that provide do(s) and don’t(s) to govern the actions of a person. All the members of an organization must adhere to these codes, and if a member violates these codes, action may be taken against him. Code of conduct may include provisions like not accepting a gift from a person with whom the organisation does business, and not joining a political party, etc. (164 words)