of Ethics Online Collection:Code of Ethics and Implementation Guidelines, adopted March 27, 1985
Code of Ethics
The American Society for Public Administration (ASPA) exists to advance the science, processes, and art of public administration. The society affirms its responsibility to develop the spirit of professionalism within its membership, and to increase public awareness of ethical principles in public service by its example. To this end, we, the members of the Society, commit ourselves to the following principles:
SERVE THE PUBLIC INTEREST
Serve the public, beyond serving oneself.
RESPECT THE CONSTITUTION AND THE LAW
Respect, support, and study government constitutions and
laws that define responsibilities
of public agencies, employees, and all citizens.
DEMONSTRATE PERSONAL INTEGRITY
Demonstrate the highest standards in all activities to inspire
public confidence and trust in public service.
PROMOTE ETHICAL ORGANIZATIONS
Strengthen organizational capabilities to apply ethics,
efficiency, and effectiveness in serving the public.
STRIVE FOR PROFESSIONAL EXCELLENCE
Strengthen individual capabil.ities and encourage the
professional development of others.
Enforcement of the Code of Ethics shall be
conducted in accordance with
Article I, Section 4 of ASPA's Bylaws.
In 1981 the American Society for Public Administration's National Council adopted a set of moral principles. Three years later in 1984, the Council approved a Code of Ethics for ASPA members. In 1994 the Code was revised.
