Explore how different ethical theories shape the values a group might prioritize.

Why This Matters

Every group—whether it is a workplace, a volunteer team, or an online community—needs clear values to guide how people treat each other and navigate difficult moments. That’s where a code of ethics comes in.

Ethical values do not come out of nowhere, as you know. They are shaped by larger ethical frameworks. Some groups emphasize compassion, others fairness or utility. Understanding where these values come from helps us be more thoughtful and responsible contributors to our professional and civic communities.

Assignment Preparation

In this assignment, you will explore how different ethical theories shape the values a group might prioritize. You will create two versions of a code of ethics for the same group, each based on a different theory. 

Step 1: Choose a Group

Pick a group you are part of, know well, or want to join in your field (e.g., workplace, student club, health care team, online community). Think about the following:

• What is the group’s purpose, and who are its members?
• What are some common activities or challenges the group experiences?
• What are some ethical dilemmas the group may face?

Step 2: Select Two Ethical Theories

Choose 2 ethical theories from the course that you have studied so far (e.g., utilitarianism, virtue ethics, Kantian ethics, egoism, relativism, etc.). 

Step 3: Review Resources

Revisit Ch. 3 and 4 in Introduction to Ethics and this week’s readings on codes of conduct, organizational ethics, and reasoning.

Review the Ethical Code Fictional Example to help you set up your code format.

Assignment Deliverable

Write 2 versions of a code of ethics for the group you chose using the 2 theories you chose. Your code of ethics should include the following components:

• Group Introduction
• In one paragraph, briefly describe the group you selected. Include the following information:
• Who is the group and what they do
• Why a code of ethics would be useful for them
• The ethical challenges or situations they might face
• Codes of Ethics
• Write 2 codes of ethics for the group using 2 ethical theories. Each code should include:
• 6–10 clear, actionable bullet points
• Rules or expectations that reflect the values of the ethical theory
• A heading identifying the theory [e.g., “Virtue Ethics Code for (Group Name)”]
• Note: Do not name the theory inside the bullets. Focus on the values it emphasizes.
• Comparison Reflection
• Write a 200- to 300-word paragraph comparing the two codes in which you explain:
• How the theories shaped different values, tone, or priorities
• Key similarities and differences between the two codes
• What you noticed about ethical reasoning in practice
• Which approach you think fits your group best and why

How to Write Two Codes of Ethics for a Healthcare Team Using Ethical Theories

Introduction

Begin by introducing the importance of ethics in healthcare, emphasizing that ethical principles guide healthcare professionals in delivering safe, compassionate, and patient-centered care. Explain that healthcare teams regularly face complex ethical situations involving patient autonomy, confidentiality, resource allocation, informed consent, and professional accountability. Discuss that a code of ethics provides a framework for consistent decision-making and promotes trust, integrity, teamwork, and professionalism. Conclude the introduction by stating that the assignment will develop two separate codes of ethics for a healthcare team based on two different ethical theories and compare how each theory influences ethical decision-making and professional behavior.

Section 1: Group Introduction

Select a healthcare team consisting of advanced practice nurses, registered nurses, physicians, pharmacists, therapists, and other healthcare professionals who collaborate to provide comprehensive patient care.

Write one introductory paragraph that addresses:

The purpose of the healthcare team.

The responsibilities of its members.

Why a code of ethics is essential for guiding professional conduct.

Common ethical challenges the team may encounter, such as protecting patient confidentiality, respecting patient autonomy, managing conflicts of interest, addressing cultural differences, allocating limited healthcare resources, and maintaining professional integrity during complex clinical situations.

Section 2: Code of Ethics Based on Utilitarianism

Create the heading:

Utilitarian Code of Ethics for a Healthcare Team

Develop 6–10 actionable bullet points that reflect the principles of maximizing overall well-being and promoting the greatest benefit for patients, families, and the healthcare organization.

The bullet points should emphasize practical expectations such as:

• Prioritize decisions that produce the greatest overall benefit for patients and the community.
• Use healthcare resources responsibly to maximize patient outcomes.
• Collaborate with team members to improve quality of care and patient safety.
• Base clinical decisions on the best available evidence and expected outcomes.
• Promote preventive care and health education to improve community health.
• Report safety concerns promptly to reduce harm.
• Support equitable access to healthcare services whenever possible.
• Continuously evaluate clinical practices to improve overall patient outcomes.

Do not mention the ethical theory within the bullet points.

Section 3: Code of Ethics Based on Kantian Ethics

Create the heading:

Kantian Code of Ethics for a Healthcare Team

Develop 6–10 actionable bullet points emphasizing duty, respect, fairness, honesty, and respect for every patient’s dignity.

The bullet points should focus on expectations such as:

• Treat every patient with dignity and respect regardless of background or circumstances.
• Protect patient confidentiality in all professional interactions.
• Obtain informed consent before treatment whenever required.
• Tell the truth when communicating with patients and colleagues.
• Follow professional standards consistently regardless of personal benefit.
• Respect patients’ rights to make informed healthcare decisions.
• Maintain professional integrity even when facing difficult situations.
• Hold yourself accountable for your clinical decisions and actions.

Again, avoid mentioning the ethical theory inside the bullet points.

Section 4: Comparison Reflection

Write one paragraph (200–300 words) comparing the two codes.

Address the following:

How the two ethical theories influenced the values emphasized within each code.

Differences in tone, priorities, and approaches to ethical decision-making.

Similarities shared by both codes, such as professionalism, accountability, patient safety, and respect.

What you learned about applying ethical theories in healthcare practice.

Which ethical approach is most appropriate for a healthcare team and why. You may conclude that one theory provides stronger guidance or that combining elements of both theories offers the most balanced approach to patient care.

Conclusion

Summarize the major concepts discussed by emphasizing that codes of ethics help healthcare professionals make consistent, ethical, and patient-centered decisions in complex clinical environments. Reinforce that although utilitarianism and Kantian ethics prioritize different ethical principles, both contribute valuable perspectives that promote professionalism, accountability, and high-quality patient care. Conclude by highlighting that understanding multiple ethical theories enables healthcare professionals to navigate ethical dilemmas thoughtfully while maintaining trust, integrity, and excellence in practice.

References

Use APA 7th edition references in alphabetical order.

Include:

The course textbook Introduction to Ethics.

Assigned readings from Chapters 3 and 4.

Course materials on codes of conduct, organizational ethics, and ethical reasoning.

Any additional peer-reviewed scholarly sources used to support your discussion.

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