How to Write Codes of Ethics, Pledges, etc.

The following articles, arranged randomly, provide various perspectives on how to create a code of ethics primarily. And most also relate either directly or indirectly to other forms of promise (i.e., oaths, pledges, etc.). (For codes of ethics of specific companies, see the Companies' Codes categories; for corporate ethics consultants and seminars, see the Ethics consultants/seminars category.)

• Guidance for writing a code of ethics (Chris MacDonald, Ph.D.)
  
  
• Codes of Ethics: Who Needs Them? by Eric Matthews This article explains the rationale for the declaration that the author designed for medical graduates of the University of Aberdeen. He makes an intentional distinction between an "oath," such as that of Hippocrates, and this "declaration."
  
  
• Complete Guide to Ethics Management: An Ethics Toolkit for Managers (Carter McNamara, MAP For Non-Profits)
  
  
• "Establishing a code of ethics" (Institute of Business Ethics):
  • Developing a Code - 8 steps
  • Content - what are the issues for your organization
  • Implementing a Code - 12 steps
  • Making codes effective and useful - understanding good and bad practice
  • Rules for small and medium size businesses
  
  
• Authoring a Code: Observations on Process and Organization (Andrew Olson, Center for the Study of Ethics in the Professions, Illinois Institute of Technology)
  
  
• (Writing a Company's Code of Ethics (W. Michael Hoffman, Perspectives, Center for the Study of Ethics in the Professions, Illinois Institute of Technology, scroll down to p.[9])
  
  
• Writing a Code of Ethics (Michael Davis, Perspectives, Center for the Study of Ethics in the Professions, Illinois Institute of Technology)