An Ethical Dilemma

A fine line draws the distinction between what is consdiered unethical behavior and legal compliance. The former raises issues of moral principles governing appropriate conduct, while the latter concerns matters established under the law whether through common law or legislative decree. While the two sets of conduct are neither mutually inclusive nor exclusive, an accusation of ethical impropriety will be met with a defense based upon the legality of the action. Then again the issue of legality is passively addressed and the point that the action is not illegal is vehemently stressed.

Cardinal Bernard Law tendered his resignation as the head of the Boston archdiocese amidst allegations that he knowingly moved priests accused of sexual molestation from parish to parish and failed to take any action against these priests. Parishioners were never informed of the transgressions. Clearly unethical conduct, but not patently criminal. Yet, he walked away with a promotion to a cushy assignment within the walls of the Vatican.

House Majority Leader Tom DeLay (R-Texas) faces allegations of unethical conduct. Representative DeLay supposedly had family members on the payroll of a campaign committee, questionable overseas travel concerns and connections to lobbyists who extended their glad hands to him for other reasons than a handshake. The allegations could possibly fall into the category of unethical/criminal. However, DeLay has the benefit of additional defenses outside the "not illegal" vindication. Since DeLay is Republican, the liberal Democrats on a witch hunt excuse stands in the playbook. The Republicans also are looking to change the rules concerning the procedures regarding allegations and subsequent removal from position. The fact is that some Republicans are not all that keen with Rep. DeLay and consider him an embarrassment to the GOP. Rep. Christopher Shays (R-Conn) has been vocally critical of DeLay.

A position of public trust is not to be taken lightly. Too often is the case wherein individuals bend the rules in an effort to accommodate their needs. They or their representatives look to the loopholes. Which bears the most importance: ethical or criminal? The standard should be raised to concentrate on even an appearance of ethical impropriety.