What Use is a Code?

Discussion Question: Whose position would you defend in this case, Carla's or Vlad's? Why? Be sure to support your response with concepts from the course.

The following conversation takes place between two public servants, Carla and Vlad, during a coffee break:

Carla: I think the introduction of a code of ethics is a good way to improve the standard of conduct among public servants.

Vlad: I think codes are useless. Its totally unreasonable to assume that you can change peoples behaviour by writing down a set of rules. General guidelines are too vague and dont help people in specific situations, and a detailed code encourages people to become too legalistic to try and get around the rules somehow.

Carla: I dont agree. I think a code is useful as a guideline to encourage administrative responsibility. Codes have a symbolic function.

Vlad: Rules that are imposed on people from above will never effectively alter their behaviour. Ethical behaviour must be internalized it must form part of the value system of the individual. We need to create an administrative culture in which people behave ethically because they really believe in a certain set of values.