What Are Core Ethical Values?
Two sets of core ethical values are described below, the first from Ethical Frontiers in Public Management, by Kathryn Denhardt; the second from the Josephson Institute. Public Service Ethics Denhardt identifies three major ethical values inherent in public service: honor, benevolence, and justice. All three contribute to the moral foundation of public service—doing good not for personal gain but for the satisfaction of contributing to society. Honor is having a strong sense of duty and pursuing good deeds as ends in themselves. Being honorable means having integrity, being honest and keeping commitments. Honorable trustees are committed to the public interest and to the principles of democracy. Promoting one’s own interests at the district’s expense, engaging in manipulation, following hidden agendas, and making power plays are not honorable or ethical. Benevolence is the disposition to do good and to promote the welfare of others. Public education is a benevolent act. Through providi
