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
- Reference List
- Include a reference page that cites all sources, including your textbook, you used according to APA guidelines.
How to Write Two Codes of Ethics Using Different Ethical Theories
Introduction
Begin by explaining that codes of ethics provide organizations and professional groups with a framework for ethical decision-making, professional conduct, and accountability. Discuss that ethical theories influence how organizations define appropriate behavior, resolve ethical dilemmas, and establish expectations for members. Explain that different ethical theories prioritize different values, meaning the same organization may develop distinct ethical standards depending on the philosophical approach adopted. Conclude the introduction by stating that the assignment will examine one selected group, develop two separate codes of ethics based on two different ethical theories, and compare how each theory shapes ethical expectations and organizational behavior.
Section 1: Group Introduction
Write one well-developed paragraph introducing the group you selected.
Include:
The name and purpose of the group.
Who its members are.
Its primary responsibilities or activities.
Why a code of ethics is important for the group.
Common ethical situations or dilemmas members may encounter.
Explain how a formal code of ethics promotes professionalism, consistency, accountability, trust, and ethical decision-making within the organization.
Section 2: Code of Ethics Version One
Choose your first ethical theory (for example, Utilitarianism, Kantian Ethics, Virtue Ethics, Egoism, or Relativism).
Create a heading such as:
Code of Ethics for [Group Name] Based on [Selected Ethical Theory]
Develop 6–10 clear, actionable bullet points that reflect the values emphasized by the selected ethical theory.
Each bullet should represent a practical expectation or rule that members can follow.
Although the heading identifies the theory, do not mention the theory by name within the bullet points. Instead, allow the principles and values of the theory to guide the wording of the expectations.
Ensure the code aligns consistently with the selected ethical framework.
Section 3: Code of Ethics Version Two
Choose a different ethical theory from the course.
Create a heading such as:
Code of Ethics for [Group Name] Based on [Selected Ethical Theory]
Develop 6–10 clear, actionable bullet points that reflect the values of the second ethical theory.
Again, avoid naming the ethical theory inside the bullet points.
Focus on creating expectations that demonstrate how this theory approaches ethical behavior differently from the first code.
Ensure the second code emphasizes different priorities, reasoning, or ethical principles while remaining appropriate for the same group.
Section 4: Comparison Reflection
Write one paragraph of approximately 200–300 words comparing the two codes of ethics.
Discuss:
How each ethical theory shaped the values emphasized in the code.
Differences in tone, priorities, and decision-making approaches.
Similarities between the two codes.
Major differences in ethical reasoning.
What you learned about applying ethical theories in real organizational settings.
Which ethical approach best fits your selected group and why.
Support your discussion with examples from the two codes you created.
Conclusion
Summarize the major concepts discussed by emphasizing that ethical theories provide different perspectives for developing organizational codes of ethics while promoting responsible behavior and professional accountability. Reinforce that although the two codes share the common goal of guiding ethical conduct, each reflects distinct philosophical principles that influence organizational priorities and ethical decision-making. Conclude by highlighting that understanding multiple ethical theories enables leaders and professionals to develop thoughtful, consistent, and ethically sound policies that address real-world organizational challenges.
References
Use APA 7th edition references in alphabetical order.
Include:
The course textbook Introduction to Ethics.
Any assigned readings from Chapters 3 and 4.
The course resource on codes of conduct, organizational ethics, and ethical reasoning.
Any additional scholarly or credible sources used to support the assignment.
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