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ASSIGNMENT INSTRUCTIONS:
Supporting Lectures:
Ethics and Morals
Ethical Systems
At this early stage of the course, consider your own pre-existing thoughts on the topic of ethical behavior.
What problems arise in the application of personal ethics to law enforcement practices and to the criminal justice system?
What is the difference between morality, ethics, and professional standards? How should a professional in the criminal justice system resolve a conflict between his or her personal ethics and the requirements of the job?
In the criminal justice field, it is not uncommon for professionals to encounter ethical dilemmas: situations where there is more than one possible ethical action to take. Consider an officer who is questioning an addict on the street. Should the officer look the other way if the addict begins suffering withdrawal symptoms and wants to ingest a narcotic? The “ethics of duty” require the officer to prevent drug use and make an arrest. However, the officer’s personal ethics might demand that he or she show compassion toward a suffering person.
HOW TO WORK ON THIS ASSIGNMENT (EXAMPLE ESSAY / DRAFT)
Introduction
Ethics and morals are essential concepts that guide human behavior and decision-making processes. In the criminal justice system, ethical behavior is of utmost importance because the actions of professionals in this field have a significant impact on people’s lives. In this essay, we will explore the application of personal ethics to law enforcement practices and the criminal justice system. We will also discuss the difference between morality, ethics, and professional standards and how professionals in the criminal justice system can resolve conflicts between personal ethics and job requirements.
Application of Personal Ethics to Law Enforcement Practices and the Criminal Justice System
Law enforcement professionals face various ethical dilemmas that challenge their personal beliefs and values. For instance, an officer may encounter situations where they have to choose between upholding the law and showing compassion to a person in need. In such situations, an officer’s personal ethics may conflict with their professional duties. In the scenario mentioned earlier, the “ethics of duty” require the officer to prevent drug use and make an arrest, but their personal ethics may demand that they show compassion to the suffering person.
Another ethical dilemma that law enforcement professionals face is the use of force. While the use of force may be necessary in certain situations, it can be challenging to determine the appropriate level of force to use. The excessive use of force can result in serious injuries or even death, which is a violation of a person’s human rights. As such, law enforcement professionals must strike a balance between using force when necessary and not using excessive force.
Difference between Morality, Ethics, and Professional Standards
Morality refers to a set of principles that define right and wrong behavior. It is a set of personal beliefs and values that guide an individual’s actions. Ethics, on the other hand, refers to a set of principles that define right and wrong behavior in a professional setting. Professional standards are the rules and regulations that govern a particular profession. These standards are often based on ethical principles.
Resolving Conflicts between Personal Ethics and Job Requirements
When a professional in the criminal justice system encounters a conflict between their personal ethics and job requirements, they should seek guidance from their superiors or colleagues. They can also seek the advice of a professional ethics committee. However, if the conflict is severe, they may need to consider leaving their job if they cannot reconcile their personal ethics with their job requirements.
Conclusion
In conclusion, ethics and morals are critical concepts that guide human behavior and decision-making processes. In the criminal justice system, ethical behavior is of utmost importance because the actions of professionals in this field have a significant impact on people’s lives. Law enforcement professionals face various ethical dilemmas that challenge their personal beliefs and values, and they must strike a balance between their personal ethics and job requirements. By understanding the difference between morality, ethics, and professional standards, professionals in the criminal justice system can make informed decisions that align with their personal ethics while upholding their professional duties.
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