In my home state of Ohio we’re witnessing a meltdown in the state government (http://www.ohio.com/mld/beaconjournal/12277562.htm). The governor and others close to him are taking a lot of heat over some state investment funds that have gone "belly up." Since our expectation level is low for politicians, we won’t discuss the why. But I am fascinated by the citizenry and ethics.
Some time ago I conducted a workshop on ethics. It was eye opening to see so many people confused on what’s right and what’s wrong. My job was to bring clarity and direction (which I did). There were some who came away feeling guilty for past transgressions, as well as those who felt vindicated by stands they’d taken previously. One the biggest awakenings came in the area of the "golden rule." Big surprise? It seemed that the golden rule was the answer to our ethics dilemma. Without exception everyone of the participants endorsed this age old principle. There are other issues to tackle around ethics, but certainly the golden rule is essential.
The following are some remedies that maybe my state could use:
- Ethics (like love) is a decision. You must decide to be ethical, and then don’t waiver.
- You need key ethical advisers to keep you accountable.
- There are no shortcuts to success (business or government).
- As the leader goes, so goes the follower