Ethics and Public Policy

Synonyms

Ethical codes; Kantianism; Morality; Professionalism; Public decision-making; Utilitarianism; Values

Definitions

Public policy may be defined simply as the formal and informal courses of action or procedures that governments undertake or intentionally choose not to undertake. While there are many more sophisticated definitions available, this one focuses attention on government actions or government choices to take no action and avoids discussions of government officials’ or politicians’ claims about future plans.

Ethics can be defined as standards of right and wrong that specify what individuals should do. Such standards are typically derived from (1) principles that form the basis for behavior, (2) a consideration of the benefits (or harms) that come from taking action, and (3) qualities that define a “good” person. In public administration, a fourth source is also often used, duty or the behaviors expected of an individual as a result of his or her role.

Introduction

The...