Reading Response
After reviewing James Svara, Chapters 1 and 2 – Introduction and Ethical Development – Briefly discuss 2-3 takeaways from each chapter. Can you think of a time when you were faced with a professional obligation? How were you able to act responsibly by meeting the challenge? Provide examples of steps you took. What was your thought process when deciding on the decision and the possible outcome(s)? Be sure to include citations from Chapters 1 and 2 to support your claim(s).
Ethical Development – In Chapter 2, Lawrence Kohlberg provides a model of moral judgement. As children mature into adulthood, they become influenced by society forces. At stage 4, most adults begin to accept the legitimacy of laws and other rules of behavior, including professional codes of ethics. Kohlberg argues that the postconventional level of stages 5 and 6 are difficult to achieve. Do you agree or disagree? Provide examples! Provide citations from chapter 2 to support your claims.
Responsibilities of Public Administrators – As public administrators, you are obligated to serve your political superiors while meeting the needs of your constituents/customers. Discuss a time when you had to go against your direct supervisor for the benefit of the public. Was the directive against your code of ethics? Your spiritual beliefs? Was the directive against the law? Describe the steps you had to take. What was the outcome and was it in your favor?
