Graham Zellick
Extract
The premise of this lecture is that there are two different sets of ethical rules, the purely private and a special set arising in the workplace which will differ from occupation to occupation. . . .
• First, I hope it is axiomatic that ethics and morals must accompany individuals at all times no matter what they are doing.
• Secondly, that the moral or ethical position of the individual may in certain circumstances have to take on board other considerations which also have a moral and ethical dimension and that the ultimate decision, though different from one that would be reached in private life by the individual, is nevertheless justifiable and ethical.
• Thirdly, that to violate these precepts, even if it is done in order to give primacy to one’s own ethical code, is not ethical: the individual should resign or seek an alternative occupation. In other words, there are times when to listen to one’s private conscience while remaining deaf to the moral demands of one’s occupation can itself be seriously unethical.
• Fourthly, that weighing these considerations in the balance is no easy task and succumbs to no formula. It calls for the exercise of keen judgment informed by a developed moral framework.
Zellick G. Private Conscience: Public Duty. European Judaism. 2003 Autumn;36(2):118-131.