How should professionals ideally resolve ethical conflicts?

Consulting established codes of conduct is the most effective approach for resolving ethical conflicts. These codes provide a framework for behavior and decision-making within a profession, ensuring that actions align with the standards and values upheld by industry peers. These guidelines are developed through the collective experience of professionals, reflecting best practices and ethical principles that help maintain trust and integrity in professional relationships.

By referring to established codes of conduct, professionals can assess their situation against recognized benchmarks, fostering more objective and consistent decision-making. This not only aids individuals in determining the right course of action but also reinforces accountability and ethical responsibility within the profession as a whole.

In contrast, prioritizing personal benefits can lead to biased and self-serving outcomes, while avoiding the issue can exacerbate ethical dilemmas, making them harder to address later. Relying solely on instinct may result in inconsistent and subjective judgments that do not align with professional standards. Therefore, adhering to established codes is key to navigating ethical conflicts effectively and responsibly.