Political Scientist code of ethics

A political scientist is a profession that interests my highly and the world of American politics is a murky one where codes of ethics don’t necessarily hold great weight. If I do end up in the field of politics as a political scientist, then I shall aim to do my utmost in holding myself to a good code of ethics. This code of ethic for politicians by Bruce Weinstein I found on the website for “Anderson Cooper 360” is a proper way for someone with a profession in politics to follow.

1. TELL THE TRUTH

I consider this to be the most important ethical value as many citizens believe all politicians to be liars and cheats who care very little about getting things done compared to getting reelected. Telling the truth is the number one way to break that stigma; make your word your honor.

2. TAKE RESPONSIBILITY

3. RISE ABOVE THE FRAY

Don’t be afraid to stand up for what’s right in a pit of snakes. Be the diamond in the rough. This doesn’t just apply to doing the right thing when many are doing the opposite. Work harder than others. Politics is a “what have you done for me lately?” kind of business so always be upping your game and showing what you can bring to the table that others (the fray) cannot.

4. CRITICIZE THE ARGUMENT, NOT THE PERSON

5. LISTEN

6. DON’T MAKE PROMISES YOU CAN’T KEEP

7. SPEND FAIRLY

8. REMEMBER WHAT IT’S ALL ABOUT

9. TAKE A BREAK

10. LOSE WELL

If you fail, then fail spectacularly. Losing is the best way to learn from your mistakes and better yourself the next time around. If you fail to impress others in politics, then show them how well you can rebound after defeat and you’ll be back stronger than before; wiser too. Don’t be a sore loser as politics is full of winners and losers, a middle ground is hard to find, to show how great your character is when playing the game of politics.

Anyone in the field of politics who breaks this code of ethics is the definition of a dirty politicians. Politicians are supposed to be our nations’ leaders and who citizens look to in times of crisis and conflict solution. The people should not serve the government, the government should serve the people. Disregarding these ethics is disregarding the citizens of the United States which I find utterly despicable from a politician. Citizens need to trust their government, but the government’s employees must give them cause to do so. I want to be a political scientist pushing for the good guys who want to make the world a better place and not helping the villains in their schemes to screw over their constituents and that starts with good ethical values.