Ethics is a set of values and norms, dictating how people who belong to an occupational field or an organization should act; for example, a doctor’s ethics or Apple’s ethics. It can also refer to an individual’s beliefs about morals, which can help if they align with what one’s profession or company promotes. Behaving ethically is important because it demonstrates that the person does what is considered right and avoids performing immoral acts that can harm other people. In the academic space, ethical conduct is necessary, as it concerns not only the attitude towards others but various disciplines and their intellectual products.
Walden University has a Code of Conduct and five principles with which students should align their behavior. I believe that by acting upon them, which means meeting the student expectations and maintaining integrity, I will be able to claim my conduct as ethical. For instance, one principle is honesty, and I would avoid using forbidden materials during the exam or fabricating research results to uphold it (Walden University, 2020). Trust and honesty appear inseparable to me, but I would acknowledge that an idea was not originally mine and belonged to another student to maintain a trustful atmosphere (Walden University, 2020). For fairness, I will follow the Code and encourage other students to do it so that everyone would be in an equal position. As far as respect is concerned, I can listen to various opinions, especially from minority students, and attempt to understand them instead of exhibiting bigoted views or behavior. To demonstrate responsibility, I would accept any sanctions in the case of violating the Code and not try to shift the blame to other people or the circumstances (Walden University, 2020). Overall, I share the sentiment that those principles are essential, so upholding them is my duty.
Reference
Walden University. (2020). 2020-2021 Walden University student handbook. Author.