The main professional accounting bodies in the UK are introducing more formal courses in ethics. Can ethics be taught‪?‬

Ethical aspects have been permanently discussed within a wide range of society’s interests which goes back to historical philosophers like Aristotle, Socrates and Plato, but is also on the daily agenda.

What people define whether ethical or not can differ but there are a few objective building blocks which seem to be all-around the same. In simple words one would be considered as an ethical person by living principles like telling the truth, not stealing, and treating others as one would want to be treated. As Charles Tilley, CEO of CIMA, recently mentioned in an interview, “the definition of ethics (for accountants) has never changed. It is about being honest, open and professional”. Ethical deliberations should encourage characteristics like loyalty, honesty, objectivity and integrity.
The professional bodies...