Ecole Polytechnique de Masuku

Département d’Anglais
SGI 1 –Mr COLY T. L.

ETHICS VS. PROFESSIONALISM

Introduction
Ethics
Ethics refers to a set of moral principles and values that guide individuals in determining what is right or
wrong. It involves making decisions and taking actions based on principles such as honesty, integrity, fairness,
and respect for others. Ethics provides a framework for individuals to navigate complex situations and make
choices that align with their personal values and societal norms.
One of the key attributes of ethics is its subjectivity. Different individuals may have varying ethical
perspectives influenced by their cultural background, upbringing, and personal beliefs. However, despite
these differences, ethics aims to establish a common ground for acceptable behavior and promote the well-
being of individuals and society as a whole.
Ethics also emphasizes the importance of accountability. It encourages individuals to take responsibility for
their actions and the consequences that arise from them. By adhering to ethical principles, individuals can
build trust, maintain positive relationships, and contribute to a harmonious and ethical work environment.
Furthermore, ethics extends beyond individual actions and encompasses the ethical implications of
organizational decisions and practices. Organizations are expected to uphold ethical standards, ensuring
fairness, transparency, and social responsibility in their operations. Ethical organizations prioritize the welfare
of their stakeholders, including employees, customers, and the wider community.
In summary, ethics provides a moral compass for individuals and organizations, guiding behavior, promoting
accountability, and fostering a sense of responsibility towards others.

Professionalism
Professionalism, on the other hand, refers to the conduct, behavior, and attitudes expected from individuals
in a particular profession or workplace. It encompasses a range of attributes, including competence,
reliability, punctuality, and a commitment to continuous learning and improvement.
One of the key attributes of professionalism is the emphasis on expertise and specialized knowledge.
Professionals are expected to possess the necessary skills and qualifications to perform their roles effectively.
They are also expected to stay updated with the latest developments in their field and engage in ongoing
professional development to enhance their expertise.
Professionalism also involves maintaining a high level of integrity and ethical conduct. Professionals are
expected to adhere to ethical standards and codes of conduct specific to their profession. This includes
maintaining confidentiality, avoiding conflicts of interest, and acting in the best interest of their clients or
organizations.
Another important aspect of professionalism is the ability to work collaboratively and communicate
effectively. Professionals are often part of a team or work in a client-facing role, requiring them to interact
with others respectfully and professionally. Effective communication skills, both verbal and written, are
essential for conveying information, resolving conflicts, and building positive relationships.
Moreover, professionalism extends beyond individual behavior and encompasses the overall image and
reputation of a profession. Professionals are expected to uphold the reputation of their field and contribute
Ecole Polytechnique de Masuku
Département d’Anglais
SGI 1 –Mr COLY T. L.

to its advancement. This includes promoting ethical practices, engaging in professional networks, and
mentoring others.
In summary, professionalism encompasses the qualities and behaviors expected from individuals in a specific
profession, including expertise, integrity, effective communication, and a commitment to the advancement
of the profession.
Comparing Ethics and Professionalism
While ethics and professionalism share some common attributes, they also have distinct characteristics that
differentiate them. Let's explore some of the key points of comparison:
1. Subjectivity vs. Objectivity
Ethics is subjective in nature, influenced by personal values and cultural perspectives. What one person
considers ethical may differ from another's viewpoint. In contrast, professionalism tends to be more
objective, with defined standards and expectations specific to a profession or workplace.
For example, in a healthcare setting, ethics may involve difficult decisions regarding patient care, such as end-
of-life choices. Different healthcare professionals may have varying ethical perspectives based on their
personal beliefs and experiences. However, professionalism in healthcare requires adherence to established
guidelines and codes of conduct, ensuring patient safety, confidentiality, and quality care.
2. Individual vs. Collective Focus
Ethics primarily focuses on individual decision-making and behavior, emphasizing personal values and moral
principles. It guides individuals in making choices that align with their own ethical compass. On the other
hand, professionalism often has a collective focus, emphasizing the expectations and standards of a particular
profession or workplace.
For instance, an engineer may face an ethical dilemma regarding the safety of a project. Their personal ethics
may guide them to prioritize safety over other considerations. However, professionalism in engineering
requires adherence to industry standards and regulations, ensuring the project meets the required safety
criteria.
3. Flexibility vs. Consistency
Ethics allows for more flexibility and adaptability, considering the diverse perspectives and values of
individuals. It recognizes that ethical dilemmas may not always have a clear-cut solution and encourages
critical thinking and reflection. In contrast, professionalism often requires consistency and adherence to
established norms and standards.
For example, in the legal profession, ethics may involve complex decisions regarding client representation
and confidentiality. Different lawyers may approach these dilemmas differently based on their ethical
perspectives. However, professionalism in law requires adherence to the legal code of ethics, ensuring the
fair and just representation of clients within the boundaries of the law.
4. Personal vs. Occupational Development
Ethics primarily focuses on personal development and growth, guiding individuals in making ethical choices
and becoming responsible members of society. It encourages self-reflection and the cultivation of moral
Ecole Polytechnique de Masuku
Département d’Anglais
SGI 1 –Mr COLY T. L.

virtues. On the other hand, professionalism emphasizes occupational development, requiring individuals to
acquire and maintain the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their profession.
For instance, a journalist may face ethical dilemmas regarding the accuracy and objectivity of their reporting.
Ethical considerations may guide them to prioritize truth and fairness. However, professionalism in
journalism also requires the development of investigative skills, effective storytelling techniques, and
adherence to journalistic standards and principles.
Conclusion
Ethics and professionalism are two essential concepts that shape our behavior and conduct in various
domains, particularly in the workplace. While ethics provides a moral framework for decision-making and
promotes accountability and responsibility, professionalism focuses on the qualities and behaviors expected
from individuals in a specific profession or workplace.
While ethics and professionalism share some similarities, such as the emphasis on integrity and
accountability, they also have distinct attributes that set them apart. Ethics is subjective, flexible, and focuses
on individual decision-making, while professionalism tends to be more objective, consistent, and has a
collective focus.
Understanding and embracing both ethics and professionalism is crucial for individuals and organizations to
create a positive and ethical work environment, build trust, and contribute to the betterment of society as a
whole.
Comparisons may contain inaccurate information about people, places, or facts.
Ethics and professionalism are closely related concepts that guide individuals' behavior in various settings.
Ethics refers to a set of moral principles and values that govern one's actions and decisions. It involves
distinguishing right from wrong and acting in a manner that is considered morally acceptable. On the other
hand, professionalism refers to the conduct, behavior, and attitude expected from individuals in a
particular profession or workplace. It encompasses qualities such as integrity, accountability, respect, and
competence. While ethics provide a broader framework for moral behavior, professionalism focuses on
the specific expectations and standards within a professional context. Both ethics and professionalism are
essential in maintaining trust, credibility, and integrity in personal and professional relationships.

Attribute Ethics Professionalism

Set of moral principles that Conduct, behavior, and attitude expected in a

Definition
govern behavior professional setting

Guidelines for ethical

Code of Conduct Guidelines for professional behavior
behavior

Acting honestly and

Integrity Being honest and trustworthy
truthfully

Taking responsibility for

Accountability Being responsible for one's work and actions
actions
Ecole Polytechnique de Masuku
Département d’Anglais
SGI 1 –Mr COLY T. L.

Valuing others and their

Respect Treating others with courtesy and consideration
rights

Keeping information private Maintaining the privacy and confidentiality of

Confidentiality
and secure sensitive information

Adhering to laws and

Compliance Following rules and regulations of the profession
regulations

Professional Continuously improving Investing in learning and growth to enhance

Development knowledge and skills professional abilities

Situations with conflicting Challenges that require balancing professional

Ethical Dilemmas
moral choices obligations and ethical considerations

COMPREHENSION
Answer the questions about the document on ethics and professionalism:

1. What is the primary difference between ethics and professionalism?

2. How does the document define ethics?

3. What are some key attributes of professionalism mentioned in the document?

4. According to the document, what does integrity involve in the context of ethics?

5. How is accountability described differently in ethics and professionalism?

6. What does the document say about the importance of respect in both ethics and professionalism?

7. How does the document define confidentiality in a professional setting?

8. What is the role of compliance in ethics and professionalism?

9. What does professional development entail according to the document?

10. How are ethical dilemmas characterized in the document?