Which Values Are Ethical Values?

Leading in Context

By Linda Fisher Thornton

My Applied Ethics students asked a great question that I want to answer in today’s post:  “Which Values Are Ethical Values?”

Quick Overview

Not all values are ethical values. Some values, such as efficiency, do not have an ethical component. Some ethical values involve qualities of an ethical self (such as honesty and integrity). Others describe positive and ethical behavior toward others, the environment and society.

Ethical values by definition are positive and they often require that we stretch outside of our own interests to respect, protect, serve and help others.

A (Starter) List of Ethical Values

• Accountability
• Altruism
• Avoiding Harm
• Benevolence
• Care
• Citizenship
• Collaboration (See also Mutual Benefit)
• Competence (Ethical)
• Confidentiality
• Doing Good
• Fairness
• Global World View
• Greater Good
• Honesty
• Inclusion
• Integrity
• Justice
• Kindness
• Long-Term Thinking
• Moral Awareness
• Mutual Benefit
• Open-Mindedness
• Personal Congruence (Thoughts, words and actions aligned)
• Positive Intent
• Precaution (Choosing safe, healthful ingredients…

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