Using Ethics to Criticize Political Power Essay Example

consist of integrity, objectivity, openness, honesty, selflessness, and leadership. Although originally intended for the UK government, these principles can be applicable to all public office holders worldwide. They can also be modified to critique political authority, with openness being a necessary attribute for individuals in positions of political power.

Leopold (2004) argues that politicians must exhibit transparency in their actions and decisions as part of the principle of openness. This principle requires public office holders to have a logical basis for their decisions, taking into consideration the interests of the public. Additionally, it states that a decision or action can only be kept confidential from the public if it serves a greater public interest. Consequently, when those in power prioritize personal gain over the well-being of the public, they are disregarding this principle. The principle of openness not only ensures transparency among political leaders but also serves as opposition to leaders who act against the welfare of the public.

Another significant ethical principle in critiquing public power is objectivity (Mendus, 2009). Political objectivity encompasses impartiality when fulfilling the duties of a public position. Political power entails accountability, and individuals possessing this power have a duty to the public.

As such, the principle of objectivity plays a major role in how the holder of political power conducts his or her activities. In many instances, holders of public officers make decisions that are biased. In carrying out public business, making appointments, providing benefits, or awarding contracts, some individuals with political power may act unfairly. The ethical concept of objectivity can be used to criticize anyone who exercises political power with partiality. Another crucial moral concept in political power is integrity.

All individuals with political power must possess integrity.

The idea of integrity in politics pertains to politicians utilizing their power without being swayed by external influences. Individuals in political roles should prioritize the well-being of their position over the desires of family, friends, organizations, or any other persons. Personal relationships or personal interests must not hinder the duties linked to a public office. Furthermore, public officials must refrain from engaging in actions for their own gain. Maintaining integrity is vital in all public offices and it is imperative to completely prevent corruption (Philips, 2014).

However, if problems arise, the ethical principle of integrity can be employed to criticize those in political power. Those with political power who engage in activities for personal or friendship-related gain should be subjected to the principle of integrity. Another ethical principle crucial for scrutinizing political power is accountability. In politics, accountability refers to the process through which public officials take responsibility for their actions and decisions.

According to Kung (1997), it is important for leaders to be prepared to face scrutiny for their decisions. Accountability is strongly connected to political ethics and is crucial for any leader who holds responsibility. The concept of accountability can be employed to prevent the misuse of political power through misguided methods.

Accountability in a political leader is contingent upon possessing qualities that characterize a strong and trustworthy leader. Moreover, principles like honesty, selflessness, and leadership hold immense significance for individuals in public office or wielding political authority. To effectively guide the public, leaders must demonstrate proficient leadership skills. Neglecting to do so can result in the deterioration of the community. The capacity to be truthful is paramount for

those with political power since deceit compromises their integrity in the eyes of the people (Leopold, 2004).

Using ethics to criticize politics often poses difficult challenges that are not easily solved. Currently, political power is more fiercely contested than in previous times. Politics is frequently perceived as a "dirty game" where winning takes priority. To attain political power, one must succeed in elections, debates, appeal to voters, secure votes, and earn nominations. In all these scenarios, individuals face intense competition.

Maintaining ethical standards can be challenging because it necessitates fairness and compliance with rules and procedures, which can pose difficulties when seeking political power. The challenges stemming from political power can be categorized into organizational character and representation. At times, individuals holding political positions may perceive the necessity to deviate from ethical standards in order to safeguard public safety. Nonetheless, if the reasoning behind such actions is not comprehended by the general public, they might regard these actions as a breach of moral values (Girardin, 2012).

Applying ethics to political power presents a complex challenge as determining sufficiency or deficiency can be difficult. It is crucial to acknowledge that ethical standards differ in personal and political contexts. The criteria used for evaluating individual actions may not necessarily apply to exercising political authority. However, subjecting political power to moral scrutiny remains vital for its effective functioning. Honesty is among the key ethical principles emphasized for those holding positions of political power.

These concepts apply to both individual leaders with political power and nations, such as post-World War 2 Japan. After the war, Japan did not acknowledge its role or show remorse for the atrocities it committed against neighboring countries. As

a result, its relationship with nations like the Philippines, China, Indonesia, and Korea became tense because of its lack of accountability (Girardin, 2012).

Germany, unlike other countries, demonstrated accountability and honesty by apologizing for Hitler and the Nazis' actions. They also worked towards repairing relationships with neighboring countries like Britain and France. This commitment played a crucial role in establishing the European Union. Hence, it is vital to acknowledge the ethical dimensions of decisions made by politicians and individuals in positions of power.

Ethics encompass the distinction between what is morally acceptable and unacceptable. One example of an ethical rule is that corruption is deemed as wrong. Consequently, if a political leader engages in corrupt practices, they can be condemned for their lack of integrity, objectivity, and honesty. Although ethics alone cannot establish flawless politics, they advocate for politics that operate within the best interests of the people. In other words, ethics promote a system of politics that is fair and equitable, both fundamental aspects of political power (Parrish, 2007).

The integration of ethics in different arenas, such as judiciaries, delegations, devolutions, and accountability mechanisms, can guarantee fair treatment for all individuals and ensure equality. In politics, ethical standards play a crucial role in controlling political power and promoting core values such as responsibility, freedom, equity, and unity (Philips, 2014).

The use of ethics in criticizing political power focuses on the objective of maintaining fairness and prioritizing the public's best interests. The aim of public offices, actions, and decisions is to address societal issues effectively. Adhering to ethical standards guarantees the complete resolution of these challenges. The ethical standards in politics stem from the dedication of

those who possess political power. Additionally, ethics must take into account external elements that could influence political leaders, such as the media and stakeholder responsibility. Ethics are crucial in all aspects of society.

Political ethics is crucial for society's functioning and stability, especially in politics. It plays a pivotal role in preventing dictatorships, tyrannies, and disregard for public interests that often arise from unchecked political power. To prevent the abuse of authority, many countries have implemented ethical standards to discourage corruption, self-serving behavior, and personal ambitions.

Despite the lack of ethical standards in certain countries, it is still possible to critique political power and ensure that it serves the public by adhering to the aforementioned principles.

References

• Girardin, B. (2012). Ethics in Politics. Geneva: Globethics.net Focus 5.
• Kung, H. (1997). A Global Ethic for Global Politics and Economics. London: SCM Press.
• Leopold, P. (2004). Standards of Conduct in Public Life.

In J. O. Joel, The Changing Constitution. Oxford: Oxford University Press. Mendus, S.

(2009). Politics and Morality. New York: Polity Press. Parrish, J. M.

(2007). Paradoxes of Political Ethics: From Dirty Hands to the Invisible hands. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.

Philips, M. (2014). Public Ethics and Political Judgments.

London: Committee on Standards in Public Life.