What is the purpose of a Code of Ethics in a profession?

The purpose of a Code of Ethics in a profession is to provide ethical goals and moral guidelines that practitioners are expected to follow. This framework supports professionals in making decisions that uphold integrity, accountability, and fairness. It fosters trust between clients and professionals, establishes standards for behavior, and promotes a positive image of the profession to the public.

A well-defined Code of Ethics helps individuals navigate ethical dilemmas they may encounter in their work, ensuring that they act in ways that are consistent with the core values of their profession. It also enhances the credibility of the profession as a whole, since adherence to ethical standards is essential for maintaining the trust of clients and stakeholders.

While maximizing profit margins, regulating price structures, and enforcing legal compliance can be important aspects of a profession, they do not specifically address the ethical dimensions of professional conduct. Therefore, the primary role of a Code of Ethics is centered on guiding behavior according to ethical principles rather than focusing solely on profitability or regulatory compliance.