Government Ethics & Finger Pointing
The rivalry and finger pointing comes to light quite often with politicians as well as other government officials. This can especially be seen during elections and other governmental decisions or policy-making ventures. When this behavior happens it is sometimes hard to remember that, there is a code of government ethics that is supposed to be followed. Just as there is a responsibility of corporations, medical health providers and other key people towards social responsibility, the same is true for government officials at all levels.
There are many levels of government ethics, but one of the largest is the code of honor and honesty for all that serve the public regardless of elected or appointed. The general public has stated in research that they do expect government officials be held to a higher level of honor and honesty. Unfortunately, this is sometimes just the opposite and some even believe that the word politician is highly associated with that of a scoundrel. It is wrong to lump all of one group into one category, so it is important to evaluate on a case by case basis and give the person a chance.
Another area involved in government ethics is the ability to maintain business and personal integrity. The tremendous pressure that is placed on government officials sometimes causes them to buckle under the pressure. These people are only humans just like the general population. The difference between them and others is the fact that they have some power or pull, leaving the concern for jeopardizing the good of the public. Regardless of the hardships or bribes that surface in an election or other business venture the official must maintain his/her integrity, by doing what is right.
Accountability is one of the most talked about forms of government ethics. We all remember times when a politician got their hand caught in the cookie jar, claiming that they had never even had that type of cookie. One of the most frustrating aspects for the general public is the fact of them not owning their actions and suffering the consequences just like any other citizen would. This not only discredits the officials themselves, but can also cause the entire group or office to be implicated in the wrongdoing. Lumping people into one group is not the correct thing to do, but it happens everyday. The other staffers involved in the government office that has been accused of wrongdoing will automatically suffer criticism from the actions of one person. This may not be accurate or fair, but there is a certain amount of human nature that officials must contend with, regarding public opinion. Government ethics is very important, in order to ensure that all officials, politicians and workers maintain the safety and well- being of the entire population.
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