Code of ethics
Topic: Civil Services: Role, Accountability and Reforms · NCERT: Beyond NCERT
Meaning
A code of ethics is a statement of the values a public servant should live by, such as integrity, fairness and service to the public. It is different from a code of conduct, which lists specific dos and don'ts that can be enforced. A code of ethics shapes character, while a code of conduct punishes wrongdoing. It matters because honesty based on values is stronger than honesty that comes only from fear of rules.
Example
The 2nd ARC's 4th Report, Ethics in Governance (2007), urged that public-service values be made law. The draft Public Service Bill (2006-07) tried to do this, but it was never passed.
Don't confuse with
- Code of conduct: a code of conduct, such as the AIS (Conduct) Rules 1968, lists specific dos and don'ts that can be enforced, such as rules on gifts. A code of ethics states broad values.
Related concepts
- All India Services (Conduct) Rules 1968
- Central Civil Services (Conduct) Rules 1964
- Nolan principles