What Use is a Code?

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 codesare useless. It's totally unreasonable to assume that you can change people's behaviour by writing down a set of rules. General guidelines are too vague and don't help people in specific situations, and a detailed code encourages people to become too legalistic - to try and get around the rules somehow.

Carla:Idon't agree. I think a code is useful as aguidelineto 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 make a administrative culture in which people behave ethically because they really believe in a certain set of values.

Whose position would you defend in this case, Carla's or Vlad's? Why?Support your response with concepts