The Ethical Basis Of Professionalism In Education

The Ethical Basis of Professionalism in Education PRIMUM NON NOCERE The Hippocratic Oath spelled out the first responsibility of a professional in clear terms. This 2500 year-old code of conduct for Greek doctors has stood the test of time. The most famous element in the Hippocratic Oath is Primum non nocere—“Above all, not knowingly to do harm.” Professionals, whether doctor, lawyer, teacher, or engineer cannot guarantee to do good for a client. But they are constrained by professional ethics to TRY. They also can promise that they will not knowingly do harm. If this is not true the client can have no trust for the professional. The professional has to have autonomy in that the client cannot control, direct, or supervise the professional. The professional’s knowledge and judgement have to be entrusted with the decisions. However, because of this, the professional is expected to act in the public interest. So a professional is private in that they must not be subject to political or ideological control, but they are public in the sense that the welfare of their clients sets limits on their words and deeds. Thus, primum non nocere, “above all, not knowingly to do harm” is the basis of all professional ethics, an ethic of public responsibility. When this rule of ethics is not followed it causes grievous social harm. It tends to misdirect and prevent understanding. When ignored widely in a profession it can make the public lose all respect for that group. Following are more of the professional expectations written by Hippocrates, with small changes to translate them for educators. I will use methods of instruction which, according to my ability and judgment, I consider for the benefit of my students, each on an individual basis considering that student’s needs. Fairness requires impartiality, objectivity and intellectual honesty. It involves keeping my own feelings, prejudices and desires in check so that I may properly balance conflicting interests. Educators and those in training shall always place the best interest of students above their own direct or indirect interests. I will keep to the highest expectations of myself in the practice of my profession. I will discipline myself to always work for positive results in my classroom and the district as a whole. I will avoid participation in negative and unproductive pursuits. I will discipline myself to hold those things which should be confidential, confidential. I will not participate in harmful rumors and criticism of people behind their backs. I will continually seek the truth of my performance so that I can work to perfect that performance. Copyright © 2007, PWR