This paper argues that more attention should be paid to the civic functions of ethical discourse about the professions and to the moral virtues inherent in their practice and traditions. The ability of professional ethics to articulate civic ideals and virtues is discussed in relation to three issues. First, should professional ethics aim to enlighten ethical understanding or to motivate ethical conduct? Second, how should professional ethics define the professional's moral responsibilities in the face of ethical dilemmas should the professional attempt to resolve the dilemma ethically or to change the social conditions that create the dilemma in the first place? The third issue discussed in the paper is whether professional ethics should be based on the model of regulation and rational self-interest or on the model of virtue and a fundamental personal commitment to the ideal of a certain form of life? In order for work in professional ethics to attain intellectual credibility among a non-philosophical audience, it must develop a coherent and convincing position on each of these issues.
Professional ethics is based on an optimistic wager best made by a subdued heart. The wager is that something of important ethical substance can be learned about the conduct of the professions in modern society from an interdisciplinary dialogue and, beyond that, ultimately from an even more inclusive public dialogue. The discourse of professional ethics is most successful when it achieves a public dimension -when it addresses matters of genuine public concern in a way accessible to the public at large. It is less successful when it is limited to professionals talking to other professionals about Bruce Jennings is Associate for Policy Studies at the Hastings Center in Briarcliff Manor, NY. His publications include Representation and Responsibility:. Exploring Legislative Ethics and Applying the Humanities, as well as numerous articles on ethical issues in public policy.