Values, Ethics and Risk

Values and ethics are key to good governance. In a robust and accountable organization, ethics permeate actions at all levels - it is an integral part of policy analysis, and decision-making through implementation. The current interest in ethics expressed in the media, in governments and in the private sector is an indication that close attention to values and ethics is becoming vital to organizations.

Addressing these issues in practice requires close attention to good risk management practices, another priority of modern organizations. Adding "risk thinking" to a debate on values and ethics is important, because it places emphasis on the fact that outcomes matter - values and ethics should not only address abstract principles but should also translate into tangible results.

The Institute works both independently and in collaboration with organizations and individuals on research in the field of ethics in general, and on ethics applied in a number of situations and to various issues.

In support of good ethical practices and risk management within organizations, the IOG has particular experience and expertise in the following areas:

• Methods of ethical decision-making and ethical analysis of policies;
• The design of the interface between science and policy (integrating facts and values);
• The integration of ethics in the workplace and in policy contexts;
• Voluntary codes of ethical practice;
• The design of the interface between risk assessment and risk management.

To find out more about the IOG's extensive work in this area, and what we can do for your organization, please contact us.