Women's voices on developing an ethical public service

Abstract

A number of writers argue that discussions around ethics and moral behavior have traditionally been gender blind, with ethical behavior being conceptualised from a masculine standpoint. This paper gives voice to a group of senior women in the Queensland, Australia public service as they reflect on what is needed to develop a more ethical public service. Four main themes emerged from the messages they wished to share with their colleagues concerning the on‐going process of developing a more ethical public service. These were: the importance of role‐modeling and community engagement where ethical behavior is concerned; the importance of encouraging dialogue and open debate about work practices; the importance of understanding and enacting the move to relationship‐based management; and the importance of reaffirming that public service is about service.

Citation

Limerick, B. and Field, T. (2003), "Women's voices on developing an ethical public service", Women in Management Review, Vol. 18 No. 8, pp. 398-405. https://doi.org/10.1108/09649420310507488