Assignment:
Part 1
Question 1. Is there a difference between legal and ethical behaviors? Explain and provide appropriate examples. Write the answer in 250 words.
Part 2
Respond to the following discussion in about 250 words.
There is a subtle difference between legal and ethical behaviors. Legal behaviors can be related to individuals who thrive to conform and adjust their attitudes within the guidelines of the rules of laws in a defined society, set by a hierarchical governing body. For these individuals, their legal behaviors would be synonym of adopting proper ways of life that are respectful to others, as well as abiding to the societal rules and regulations established within the boundaries of a specific community. For example, a citizen who wishes to obtain a driver license to operate a motor vehicle must obey traffic laws. As another example, a medical student aspiring to become a medical doctor must by the U.S. law, pass a medical board exam as required the American Medical Association board.
Individuals’ ethical behaviors on the other hand, are concerned with acting in ways that are proper and morally right as opposed to wrong. These behaviors should be in accordance with a set of accepted principles that are guided either by our natural human values, virtues or by some types of institutional or professional bodies. For example according to my profession as respiratory therapist, during all my daily assessments, even though my primary concern is to treat my patients’ breathing impairments and other lung related diseases, I should never ignore their other illnesses that could tremendously jeopardize their lives if these are overlooked. Also, I should always be mindful that my patients’ health care needs come before my personal self-interests. However, if I do not live by these principles, I may unfortunately be behaving unethically with my patients, but not illegally. Despite this practical difference, adopting these two behavioral concepts by responsible citizens is essential for a smooth society.