Overview
Ethics, according to the Cambridge Dictionary, is defined simply as “a system of accepted rules about behavior, based on what is considered right and wrong.” Ethics is also referred to as the discipline concerned with what is morally good and bad and morally right and wrong according to Britannica.
Ethical decision making is akin to the blindfolded figure of Lady Justice – she weighs the evidence impartially, not swayed by the identities, connections or backgrounds of those who stand before her. Just as her scales must remain balanced, so must your judgment as a local official. Lack of consciously ethical decision making has the potential to be a huge problem in public administration, especially where land use applications and decisions are involved.
Regardless of the role you fulfill, or the official position you hold, upholding ethics which are centered on integrity, accountability and transparency is critical to reinforcing the public’s trust that their interests, and not any specific individual’s, are one of the pillars in every decision made.
Content Contributors: Jones and DeMille Engineering, Inc, Hansen Planning Group, LLC / Rural Community Consultants
Special Note: This material was developed by civiclinQ for the Land Use Academy of Utah (LUAU). Funding for the development of this material was provided by through the Land Use Training Fund, which is administered by the Office of the Property Rights Ombudsman , utilizing a portion of the 1% surcharge on all building permits in the State of Utah.
The role of this organization in administering funding is primarily administrative and should not be viewed as legal advice. Always consult your legal representative when addressing land use activities.
Use the ‘Materials’ tab above to view related course materials, including printable pass-along card and PDF version of this online course.
