CHAPTER 4

THE KANSAS
REAL-LIFE
EXPERIENCES CITY
PHARMACIST

1
 In August 2001, Robert Courtney, a Kansas City pharmacist
was indicted on 20 felonycounts of product tampering, drug
adulteration, and drug misbranding. Courtney illegally diluted
Gemzar and other expensive chemotherapy drugs to make
money. What was more alarming was the fact that he had
hundreds of cancer patients most of them relying on
chemotherapy treatments for survival. According to the FBI, at
least one patient who received the diluted drugs died.
Courtney was caught when a representative of Eli Lilly and
Co., the pharmaceutical company that manufactures Gemzar,
became suspicious from records that indicated that a Kansas
City doctor was receiving much more Gemzar from Courtney’s
pharmacy than the actual amount of Gemzar the pharmacy
was purchasing from the manufacturer.
After the doctor was notified and the drug was tested, US
federal agents were then informed. It was found that
Courtney was selling up to three times the amount of drugs
he was purchasing from the drug manufacturer
2
 • WHAT CRIME DID ROBERT COURTNEY
COMMIT?

• WAS IT PROPER TO ARREST ROBERT COURTNEY?WHY OR WHY

NOT?

•DO YOU THINK ROBERT COURTNEY WAS

RESPONSIBLE FOR THE ASSUMED DEATH?
3
 4
I I N NT T R R O O 4.
D DU U C C T T I I .1
4 1
 Defining a Profession

A profession is a trade, business, or occupation where one claims to

possess extensive knowledge acquired through experience and
formal education.
It involves autonomy and responsibility for independent
decision- making in carrying out professional duties.
Professing implies making a public declaration of specialized
knowledge within a specific occupation or trade.

5
 Themes of the Study

The study focuses on four

themes: Evolution of
professions
The making of an ethical
professional
The professional decision-making process
TheProfessionalism and
text outlines four ethicalin the study of professions and
themes
responsibilities
professional conduct, covering the evolution of professions, the making
of an ethical professional, the professional decision-making process,
and professionalism and ethical responsibilities.
6
 Ethical Responsibilities

Professionals are characterized by commitment,

integrity, responsibility, and accountability.
The process of becoming a professional involves both formal
education and informal in-service training.
Decision making in the professional environment is integral,
accompanied by challenges and the need to avoid perceived
wrong decisions.
Professionals continually consult with individual morality in
addressing everyday problems, especially in matters of
professionalism and ethical responsibilities.
7
 EVOLUTION
OF 44
PROFFEE ..2
9 2
 Origins
of The concept of a profession has
evolved over time, with its
Professions origins dating back to the Middle

4.2.1
Ages.
The meaning and
requirements associated with
being a professional have
significantly transformed from
the medieval era to the
present day.
 Evolution of the term “Profession”

Middle Sixteenth Nineteenth

Ages Century Century

The word "profession" A profession was associated The concept expanded to

originally referred to a with "learned pursuits" such include new professions, and
commitment formally as divinity, law, medicine, distinctions were made
professed by a person to and the military. It denoted between intellectual and
become a member of a being an authority on a manual labor.
religious order, and a body of knowledge and
professional was the person being skilled in a particular
who made this commitment. occupation.

10
 Historical Development of Professions

Eighteenth Impact of
Medieval
Century Industrial
Times
England Revolution

Professions started with Professions were seen as The Industrial Revolution led
craftsmen's guilds, occupations for the to the establishment of
responsible for setting 'gentlemen,' offering social professions in engineering,
apprenticeship standards, status but not necessarily accounting, and banking,
competence, and large material rewards. with increasing material
performance of their rewards over time.
members.

11
 Evolution of Professional
Requirements

Learned Professions
vs. Transition to Trades
Common
Professions

The term "profession" evolved into two
categories: learned professions, requiring
deep knowledge acquired through formal
education, and common professions,
associated with noblemen who were
theoretically not required to work for a
As the influence of nobility waned, the
common distinction of professions
transitioned into trades, with an emphasis
on holding a higher ethical standard.

12 living.
Requirements
of a
Professional There are three basic professional
requirements, and over the years as

4.2.
4.2.
the professions evolved, these
three elements have taken different
forms. They are as follows:

22

13
 0 02
1
HIGHLY
DEVELOPED SKILLS
AUTONOM
Y
AND DEEP
KNOWLEDGE
Professionals need a
sophisticated level
of knowledge backed
by
years of formal
schooling, as skills based
on shallow knowledge
could be damaging.
This sets
professionals apart
from skilled
laborers who acquire
considerable skills from
1 long years of work in
the same domain.
03
OBSERVANCE OF A
CODE OF
CONDUCT
Professionals hold Professionals are expected
the power in the to observe:
provider- receiver The professional code,
relationship, which provides guidelines
on professional behavior.
allowing them to vary
A personal code, based on
the way a service or
individual moral
product is provided guidelines. The
without necessarily institutional code,
consulting the receiver. imposed by the institution
This contrasts with for which the professional
nonprofessionals, who works.
cannot vary the way the The community code,
service is delivered developed over time
based on the religion or
without checking with
the customer. culture of the indigenous
 Pillars of
Professionalism
Professionalism is supported by
four pillars:commitment, integrity,

44.. responsibility, and accountability.

22..
33
1
 Commit me n t

Commitment,
accordingto Humphreys,

44..2
has these six
characteristics

2..33
1
Characteristics of Commitment
The person making the commitment must
do so willingly without duress
1. The commitment must be made
willingly without duress, and the
person executing it should enjoy
what they are doing.
Assignments with little
autonomy may lead to a lack of
commitment.
The commitment must be openly
and publicly stated
4. The commitment must be openly
and publicly stated, falling within
allocated resources of time, material,
and money. Open commitments are
transparent and easily correctable if
issues arise.
1
The person responsible must try to meet the
commitment
2. The person responsible for the
commitment must strive to fulfill it,
even if help is needed.
Professionals are expected to have
the know-how and skills to
complete the job, as well as the
ability to seek necessary skills from
others.
The commitment must not be made easily
5. The commitment must not
be made easily, and
professionals
should conduct research to
ensure they are not entering into
a problematic situation.
There must be agreement on what is to be
done, by whom, and when.
3. There must be agreement on what
is to be done, by whom, and when.
Professionals entering into a
commitment must have advance
knowledge of their tasks, and
commitments from all involved
parties are crucial for the success of
the whole job.
Prior to the committed date, if it is clear, it
cannot
met,be
advance noticemust be given, and a
new commitment negotiated
6. Prior to the committed date, if it
is clear that the commitment cannot
be met, advance notice must be
given,
and a new commitment negotiated.
This demonstrates responsibility
and commitment.
 Integrity Integrity Defined: Integrity refers to
undivided loyalty to self-belief,
encompassing honesty,
uncompromising self-value, and
being incorruptible. The Latin origin
of the word, integratas, signifies
entirety, undividedness, and

44..2 wholeness.
Maxims of Integrity: To uphold
integrity in one's professional beliefs,
three maxims are essential: vision, love

2..33
for the work, and commitment to
tasks.

1
 Vision entails the ability to foresee challenges and devise

Vision
strategies to overcome them while maximizing benefits. It is
a hallmark of effective leadership, especially in provider-
client relationships.

Research indicates that individuals who genuinely love what they

do tend to perform better. Choosing a profession based on
Love passion
fosters a sense of purpose, leading to more ethical actions
and a dedication to creating rather than merely completing
tasks.

The fusion of vision and love for the work instills a deep
Commitment commitment to seeing tasks through to completion,
aligning with the earlier definition of commitment.

1
Responsibility

4.2.3.
3

2
Understanding Responsibility Product Responsibilities
Responsibility encompasses roles, tasks, and their
When a contract involves a product, providers
outcomes, influenced by an individual's value system,
must deliver it on time, in good condition, and
environment, and culture.
provide documentation for safe use.
Varied types of responsibilities exist, such as personal,
Providers are also liable for any harm resulting
communal, parental, and professional, evolving with age
from product use.
and societal position.

Professional Responsibility as a
Provider
Consequential Responsibilities

In a provider-client or provider-customer Professionals face aftereffects of their actions,

relationship, professionals hold service, product, and
consequential responsibilities.
Service Responsibilities
Professionals are bound by specific time, quality, and
consequence responsibilities when providing a service to
a client.
Time-constraint responsibility involves agreed-upon
delivery
time, quality responsibility ensures meeting client
expectations, and consequence responsibility entails client
which can lead to praise for a job well done or
remorse and liabilities if the service or product falls
short.
Instances of harm caused by the service or
product lead to consequential responsibilities,
impacting not only the parties involved but also
innocent bystanders.
2
Accountability Accountability is a crucial aspect
of any profession, encompassing
the obligation to answer for the
execution of assigned
responsibilities. It involves a

44..2 structured process of setting

measurable outcomes, planning to

2..33
achieve them, reporting progress,
evaluating reports, and using
feedback to make improvements.

..44 And these are the three key

elements

2
 A S E TO F O U T C O M E
M EASURES THAT RE
LIABLY
AND OBJEC TIVELY EVA
LUATEP ERFORM ANC E:
Every profession has a
minimum set of measures
that individuals must meet.
These measures must be
carefully selected and
attainable, varying according
to the profession and
specific activities.
Example: In teaching, a
measure might be the
success rate of students in
standardized examinations.
2
A S E TO F P E R F O R M A N C E
STANDARDS DEFI
NED IN
TERM S OF THESE
OUTC OM EM EAS
URES:
Defined in terms of
outcome measures,
performance standards
must be carefully chosen
and attainable.
Each profession must have
common performance
standards for all its
members for every service
or product provided.
Example: In teaching, the
standard might be the
passing of standardized
examinations at a
predetermined level.
A SET OF INC ENTIVES
F O R M E E T I N G T H E S T
A N D A R D S A N D / O R P E
NALTIESFOR
FAILING TO M EET THE
M : Incentives should not create
undesirable motives and
must not prioritize personal
gain over professional
responsibilities.
Penalties should not be so
harsh as to discourage
individuals from entering
the profession or drive
misconduct underground.
 TThheeMMaa
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2
 T H E MAKING O F A N
ETHICAL
PROFESSIONAL:
EDUCATIO N AND
LICENSING

2
 The evolution of professions requires individuals
to meet high ethical standards through formal
education, intrinsic calling, and adherence to
professional codes of conduct, supported by
processes such as formal education, licensing,
and professional codes of conduct, to uphold and
improve these standards.

2
4.3.1 Formal Education

Importance of Formal Education in Teaching Professionalism in

Information Technology

Formal education plays a crucial role in instilling professionalism in the

field of information technology. Through targeted and incremental
learning, formal education can effectively shape individuals into
responsible and ethical IT professionals.

2
 Early High College
Education School Educatio
In elementary school, HighEducation
school curriculum n
students should be should stress responsible Students can take
introduced to responsible computer use, focusing formal courses in
ways of using computers on ethics and providing professional
and the Internet, reasons for ethical
ethics or receive
emphasizing the behavior beyond mere ethics
importance of respecting consequences.
others' work and property
education integrated
Schools should partner into their general
both online and offline.
with parents to offer
Engagement Comment: education or major-
courses in responsible
"It's alarming to see cases specific courses.
technology use,
of young individuals Colleges can
emphasizing the ethical
engaging in cyber incorporate information
reasons behind
misconduct. Early ethics content into
education can prevent refraining from malicious
graduation
such incidents in the activities online.
requirements, ensuring
2 future."
that students are well-
 Upon entering the workforce, IT professionals
should attend informal refresher sessions,
Continued seminars, and workshops periodically to stay
Professional updated on ethical considerations and best
Development practices.
Engagement Comment: "Professional development
ensures that IT professionals stay abreast of
evolving ethical challenges in the rapidly changing
technology landscape."

Interactive Learning: Incorporate interactive activities and

real-life case studies to make ethics education more
engaging and relatable for students.
Industry Partnerships: Collaborate with industry experts Suggestions
and organizations to provide insights into real-world ethical for
dilemmas and solutions.
Mentorship Programs: Establish mentorship programs Enhancement
where experienced professionals can guide and instill

2 ethical values in the next generation of IT professionals.

 4.3.2 Licensing Authorities
Licensing as a Balance of Power

Licensing grants individuals formal or legal permission to practice their profession, tipping the
balance of power in favor of the giver.
Before issuing a license, the licensing authority tests the competence of the aspirant for specific knowledge
and skills. If the test is not passed, the authority may deny issuing the license.

Rules and Privileges of Licensing

The licensing authority provides licensees with a set of rules to follow to maintain the license.
Violation of these rules can lead to sanctions or license recall.
A license is a privilege, not a right, and must be maintained by following the prescribed code.

3
 Renewal and Compliance
Many professions require license renewal tied to passing
continuing examinations.
Periodic licensing examinations are used to check members’
compliance with codes.
Enforcement and Discipline
Professions with vigorous licensing requirements have relatively
few disciplinary problems.
Licensing enables professions to enforce their rules by law,
ensuring compliance and ethical conduct.

3
4.3.3 Professional Codes of Conduct
Accordingly, and in most cases, professional codes consist
of standards, canons, and rules of conduct that address the
following areas:

• Moral and legal standards

• Professional–client relationship
• Client advocacy
• Professional–public relationships
• Sanction mechanics
• Confidentiality
• Assessment
• Compliance
• Competence
•Certified professional credentials for

3 those professions that use certification

4.3.3.1 Enforcement
Enforcement of professional codes is crucial for maintaining discipline
and upholding the image of a profession. Here are some key points to
discuss:

Discipline and Image

Professions with enforceable codes experience fewer

discipline problems and consequently enjoy a better public
image.
Enforcement mechanisms are essential for creating and maintaining
a positive professional image.

Necessity of Codes and Enforcement

Professions lacking codes should establish them, along

with enforcement mechanisms.

3 Professions with codes but without enforcement systems should

also implement such mechanisms to ensure compliance.
 Role of Enforcement

Laws, codes, canons, and guidelines require enforcement to be

effective. Various enforcement techniques exist, with professional
ethics boards being widely used.

Responsibilities of Enforcement Bodies

Drawing up and revising codes of

ethics. Educating members about the
codes.
Distributing copies of the codes to all
members. Developing disciplinary procedures.
Handling complaints, conducting hearings, counseling, and
sanctioning guilty members.
Promoting the positive image of the profession.

3
4.3.3. Reporting of Grievances
2 When it comes to reporting grievances within an organization, there
are two main procedures that are typically followed:

Organizational Route
Complaints are first reported to the local chapters, if they exist,
and then escalated to the national ethics committee.
Reporting of
Grievances Short-Circuit Procedure:
Reporting can be done at any level, and the complaint is
forwarded directly to the top.

3
4.3.3. Hearing Procedures
3
Factors Affecting Attendance Professional Logistical Efficiency of
Hearings Considerations Considerations Arrangements the Hearing
Process
Hearing The accused Professions If no field
proceedings are member's need to account office is Additionally,
influenced by attendance at for these available, the hearing
various factors the hearing factors when arrangements process itself
such as the nature, may be formulating should be should be
financial standing, influenced by hearing made to hold kept as
and structure of the absence procedures, the hearing at concise as
the profession, as of such as holding a location possible.
well as the enforcement hearings at the convenient for
enforcement procedures or nearest field both the
procedures and the office to accused
potential penalties insignificance minimize travel member and
involved.. of the for the involved the hearing
potential committee.
 Sanctions O v e r v i e w
4.3.3.
When a member is found guilty of offenses, the hearing committee
4 must determine appropriate sanctions.
Sanctions may include probation, revocation of certification, request
for resignation, and suspension from the profession at the member's
expense.
Probation
If probation is recommended, the committee must specify its nature, duration,
and conditions.
A designated person must supervise the member during probation,
ensuring all requirements are met.
Reinstatement
Once the sanctioned member fulfills the penalty requirements, a recommendation
for reinstatement in good standing can be made.

Sanctions
3
4.3.3. Purpose of Appeals Process
5 The appeals process is crucial for professionals dissatisfied with committee rulings or penalties.
It provides a mechanism for reviewing and potentially overturning decisions.
Guidelines for Appeals
The guidelines should clearly outline the procedure for filing appeals, how the appeal is
handled, who oversees the appeals, and the timeframe for initiating an appeal after receiving
a judgment.
Timeframe for Appeals
The maximum time between receiving a judgment and filing an appeal should be specified.
Additionally, the profession should stipulate the timeframe for reaching a decision on the
appeal.
Status During Appeal
The professional code of conduct should specify whether appealing members can continue
executing their duties, be put on administrative leave, or suspended until the appeal is
resolved.
Example from IEEE Code of Ethics
The IEEE's code of ethics exemplifies a commitment to ethical and professional conduct,
outlining responsibilities such as prioritizing public safety, avoiding conflicts of interest, and
promoting fair treatment and technical competence.

38 Appeals
 PPrrooffeess
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44
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3
4.4.1 Common Occurrence in Professional Life
. Professionals frequently encounter dilemmas in decision making during their
daily activities.
Decision Making Process
Decision making involves input parameters and output decisions, akin to
a mapping process.
Premises and Values
Input parameters in decision making are premises, each with attached
values.
Example of Decision Making
Using the example of choosing between walking and driving to church,
with respective premises and values.
Cause of Dilemmas
Dilemmas in decision making stem from questioning the values attached to
one's input premises.

4 PROFESSIONALDILEMMA IN DECISION
4.4.2.
Guilt and Making Ethical Decisions
Ethical Decision-Making Process

Consequences, Individual Liberties, and Justice: Decisions are based on

consequences, individual liberties, and justice, and can be framed using
ethical theories.
Utilitarian Criterion: Decisions made based on intended outcomes
or consequences.
Rights Criterion: Decisions made based on societal liberties enforced
by documents like the Magna Carta and the Bill of Rights.
Justice Criterion: Decisions are made to be fair, impartial, and
equitable to all.

4 GUILT AND MAKING ETHICAL

 Role of Guilt in Ethical Decision Making

Guilt as Internal Judgment: Guilt is the internal judgment

system punishing individuals based on moral or societal
standards.
Impact on Decision Making: Guilt affects future decisions by
re- examining values attached to decision premises.
Excess Guilt: Excess guilt can lead to withdrawal from society
and challenge the values attached to decision premises,
resulting in
poor decisions.

4
 Steps in Ethical Decision Making

Examining Ethically Relevant Issues: Identifying the

principles, standards, and practices involved.
Considering Affected Parties: Identifying the parties
affected and their special interests.
Alternative Course of Action: Deciding on alternative actions
if the outcome is unexpected.
Considering Consequences: Evaluating the short and long-
term consequences on different parties.
Consulting with Colleagues: Seeking advice if the situation
is complex, risky, or personally involved.
Evaluating Personal Influences: Reflecting on how
personal
values, biases, beliefs, or self-interests influenced the
decision.
Assuming Responsibility: Being prepared to take

4 responsibility
for the consequences of the action, including correcting
 P P r ro of f e e s s

ssiioonnaal

4
liissm
44
 WHISTLE-
BLOWING
4.5.
4
Definition and Comparison
Whistle-blowing is akin to a referee blowing a whistle in a sports event to
draw attention to a foul. Similarly, law enforcement personnel use whistles
to highlight unlawful acts.

Internal vs. Public Whistle-Blowing

Whistle-blowing can be internal, remaining within organizational channels,
or public, alerting everyone.

Barriers to Whistle-Blowing
Many employees witness wrongdoing but stay silent due to fears
of repercussions or thinking it won't make a difference.

Challenges and Risks

Whistle-blowers often face retaliatory acts such as investigations, ridicule,
and job loss. Anonymity is crucial due to potential dangers.

Methods of Whistle-Blowing
Various methods, from traditional to modern, have been used,
including computer-aided approaches.

4
 COMPUTER-
AIDED
4 METHODS 4.5.1.
 These use a software program to remove identifying data from
an original email before forwarding it, ensuring anonymity.

The remailer attaches a pseudonymous address for

potential replies but lacks a return address.

Caution is advised as server administrators can be compelled

by authorities to reveal the owner of the pseudonymous name
and address in emergency situations or under coercion.

4
 TRADITIONAL
METHODS
4.5.1.
4
 Historical Spy-like Methods
Whistle-blowing historically involved spy-like methods to pass
on information to the public or higher authorities.
Anonymity was key, and common methods included face-to-
face
communication with a trusted public figure, speaking with the news
media while keeping one's identity hidden, using hotlines that
protect caller identity, and writing letters.

Public Perception of Whistle-blowing

Whistle-blowing is seen as courageous by some, involving
individuals risking everything to expose illegitimate business
practices and immoral actions.
However, others view it as driven by vendettas, revenge, and
greed, particularly as many whistle-blowers are disgruntled

5 employees.
 Challenges and Complications
Fear of reprisals, such as physical harm and job loss, prevents many
from reporting illegal activities, though some organizations do
support whistle-blowers.
Not all whistle-blowers are sincere; some may be motivated by
greed, vendettas, or promises of financial gain.
Membership in organizational channels can lead to a whistle-
blower's concerns being ignored.

Encouragement and Guidelines for Whistle-

blowers US Government Support
The US government encourages whistle-blowing to expose illegal
acts and government waste, enacting laws like the False Claims Act
to
uncover fraud in federal contracts.

5
 Guidelines for Potential Whistle-
blowers
6.Before and after you blow the whistle, keep a
1.Before taking any irreversible steps, talk to family
careful record of events as they unfold. Try to
and close friends about your decision to blow the
construct a
whistle.
straightforward, factual log of the relevant activities
2.Be alert and discreetly attempt to learn of any
and events on the job, keeping in mind that your
other witnesses who are upset about the
employer will have access to your diary if there is a
wrongdoing.
lawsuit.
3.Before formally breaking ranks, consider whether
7. Identify and copy all necessary supporting
there is any reasonable way to work within the system
records before drawing any suspicion.
by going to the first level of authority. If this is not
8.Break the cycle of isolation, research, and identify
possible, think carefully about whether you want to go
and seek a support network of potential allies, such as
public with your concerns or remain an anonymous
elected officials, journalists, and activists. The sol-
source. Each strategy has implications: The decision
idarity of key constituencies can be more powerful than
depends on the quantity
the bureaucracy you are challenging.
and quality of your evidence, your ability to
9.Invest the funds to obtain a legal opinion
camouflage your knowledge of key facts, the risks you
from a competent lawyer.
are willing to assume, and your willingness to endure
10. Always be on guard not to embellish your
intense public scrutiny.
charges.
4.Develop a plan—such as the strategically timed
11. Engage in whistle-blowing initiatives without
release of information to government agencies—so that
using employer resources.
your

5
employer is reacting to you, instead of vice versa.
5.Maintain good relations with administration
12. Do not wear your cynicism on your sleeve
when working with the authorities.
HARASSMENT
AND
DISCRIMINATION
4.5.
5
 Definition of Harassment and Discrimination
Harassment involves creating a hostile, abusive, or
offensive environment based on factors like race,
religion, sex, or age, while discrimination refers to
making decisions that negatively affect an
individual due to these same factors.

5
 Steps to Address Harassment and Discrimination

1.Awareness
Signs of harassment include unhappiness, anxiety, and lifestyle
changes, while discrimination is harder to detect but can be inferred
from biased decision-making.
2.Prevention
Organizations should establish clear written policies outlining
procedures for addressing and preventing harassment and
discrimination, including
awareness/education, complaint process, sanctions, and redress.

5
ETHICAL AND
MORAL
IMPLICATIONS
4.5.
5
Purpose of Whistle-Blowing:
Whistle-blowing aims to alert the public to illegal acts that pose risks to health, well-being, and
misuse of public resources. It serves as a tool to bring serious issues to light and contribute to
the protection of the public's welfare.
Challenges Faced by Whistle-Blowers:
Moral Dilemma: Even individuals with high moral standards may refrain from whistle-blowing due
to fear of losing privileges, rights, and freedoms within the organization.
Retaliation: Whistle-blowers risk facing damaging retaliation from those accused and their
allies, leading to a complex moral conundrum.
Implications of Whistle-Blowing:
Disruption of Relationships: Whistle-blowing can disrupt collegial relationships and networks
within the organization, creating additional problems for the whistle-blower and colleagues.
Justifiability: Whistle-blowing is morally justifiable when the activities involved pose serious
danger and harm to human life, providing support to those who dare not speak out and others
affected.
Evil Acts of Harassment and Discrimination:
Impact: Harassment and discrimination create discomfort and inferiority for the
targeted individuals, challenging the conscience of the perpetrators and causing moral
dilemmas.
Thank You