Ethics vs Integrity
The concepts of ethics and integrity share similarities, but also have distinct differences. Both terms are emphasized in organizational settings. Ethics are present in all professions and are used as a way to avoid dilemmas. Integrity, in contrast, is more personal and refers to an individual’s honesty and fairness in their actions and words. This shows that while ethics are outwardly stated, integrity is more individualistic. This article aims to explore the differences between the two while elaborating on each concept.
What does Ethics mean?
Ethics can be defined as rules and regulations that have been established to enable individuals to work according to moral principles. Almost all organizations have a code of ethics that is imposed on employees. Adhering to an ethical code allows an organization to function with fewer disruptions from various parties. When there is a code of ethics, all employees must follow it, as there are negative consequences for non-compliance. It is also believed that adhering to ethical codes maintains professionalism and ensures the protection of clients, employees, and society at large.
For instance, counselors have certain ethics, which serve as guidelines that must be followed, as outlined by the American Psychologists Association and the American Counselors Association. One such example is the ethic of informed consent. When a client seeks counseling, it is the counselor’s duty to inform the client about the nature of counseling and answer all questions truthfully so that the client can make an informed decision.
What does Integrity mean?
Integrity can be defined as the quality of being honest and fair. This indicates that it is a personal choice. Ethics can be imposed on a person regardless of whether they agree with them or not. However, integrity cannot be imposed on anyone and must come from within. Therefore, unlike ethics, integrity is more internal. It can be thought of as a set of principles that guide an individual’s behavior. The actions and words of a person with integrity align with the principles to which they adhere. A person with integrity does not need to be observed or governed by rules to do the right thing but is self-motivated to take action simply because it is the right thing to do. In some cases, integrity may lead a person to go against ethical codes.
For example, in counseling, confidentiality is considered a prominent ethic. However, there are cases where a counselor must go against the ethic of confidentiality for the safety of the client. This highlights the difference between ethics and integrity.
Key Takeaways
- Ethics can be defined as rules and regulations that have been established to enable individuals to work according to moral principles.
- Integrity can be defined as the quality of being honest and fair.
- Ethics are more external, whereas integrity is more internal, and is a personal choice that cannot be imposed on someone.
