Ethics in Political Life

Abstract

This chapter explores the role of ethics in political life. It is in two parts. In Part 1, the relation between ethics and politics and the moral standards on which the politicians and policies framed by them should be judged is considered. It is also analysed why certain ethical norms well accepted in a society may not be appropriate for politicians due to their obligation to the public office or the nature of politics. In Part 2, the problem of political corruption and areas in which infraction of moral standards in political life occurs across the globe in different countries is discussed. It is also analysed whether objective norms are feasible on which politicians can be judged for their ethical values when they deviate from moral standards applicable to ordinary citizens. While focussing on this, it is argued that greater public vigilance, more vital international institutions, and an ethically strong community can improve moral norms in political life.