Ethics is what one ought to do–the kind of behaviors that would
make the world a better place, especially if everyone engaged in
them. The key question is: how does the conscientious public
servant sort through competing considerations and determine “the
right thing to do?” When it comes serving the public, how does
one put one’s values into practice?
To determine what one ought to do, go to the root of the matter
and think in terms of values. Research by the Institute for Global Ethics
identifies ethical values that transcend virtually all cultures
and religions.
“It takes 20 years to build a reputation and five minutes to ruin
it.”–Warren Buffett
