INTRODUCTION

We begin our discussion with codes of ethics. After outlining this concept, we explain the difference between codes of ethics and codes of conduct. We then examine two types of ethics: (i) ethics of professions and (ii) ethics of civil services. We outline the general principles of professional ethics and illustrate them with examples of codes of nursing and accounting professions. Thereafter, we consider general principles and approaches to public service ethics. We discuss civil service ethics using codes of conduct which govern All India Service officers. Finally, we consider the ethical codes recommended for government servants.

Ethical codes have been in existence since ancient times. They underpinned ancient religion and society. Ten Commandments, for example, belong to the religious code of Jews. Buddhism has ethical codes for householders, monks and nuns. The ancient Greek city state, Athens, had its code covering culture and politics. Ethical codes are systems of morals which cover many aspects of life. They usually consist of general obligations and admonitions, or what one should do and refrain from doing.