An Analysis of Professional Military Ethics: Their Importance, Development and Inculcation
Abstract
This research study analyzes perceptions of Army officers on professional military ethics, particularly the importance of ethical conduct in today's Army. Three general areas are explored: the degree to which there is unethical conduct among officers and how the Army deals with it; the effectiveness of training programs on military ethics in Army service schools and units; and the perceived need for mottos and codes as a guide to ethical behavior. Survey technique was a questionnaire administered to 2200 officers, representing all ranks from 2LT to COL, with proportionate distribution of male and female, combat, combat support, and combat service support arms, TOE unit officers, students and faculty, and USMA/non-USMA commission source officers. The findings reveal a strong feeling of the importance of professional military ethics. Study data show a lack of training programs for more emphasis in these areas. There is a strong identification with Duty, Honor, Country as an acceptable code, but mixed feelings as to the effectiveness of this code in promoting ethical behavior. Respondents favor a formalized code of ethics for the Profession of Arms by 2 to 1, with its desirability inversely proportionate to rank.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 19, 1977
- Accession Number
- ADA045204
Entities
People
- Melville A. Drisko Jr.
Organizations
- United States Army War College