ABSTRACT
An ethics code establishes guidelines for behavior. Ethics codes go beyond legal codes into the sometimes confusing world of right and wrong. In an ethics dilemma, values seem to clash with one another, and every possible course of action seems to betray a value and cause unfair damage. Poor ethics can interfere with the fulfillment of an organization's goals—especially long-term goals. Ethical behavior is good for business. Although scholarly studies disagree about whether ethical behavior leads to financial success, they do agree on the opposite: Unethical behavior hurts profits and organizational success. In addition to focusing on principles established by important religious figures, university courses in ethics often emphasize these key philosophers and ideas. Strategic writing builds productive relationships. Good ethics are a strong foundation for productive relationships that will stand the test of time. The origins of the word ethics suggest the challenges of behaving ethically.
