What is considered the keystone of professional conduct?

Integrity is considered the keystone of professional conduct because it encompasses the essential values of honesty, accountability, and moral principles that guide behavior in a professional setting. Professionals are expected to uphold a standard of conduct that reflects their commitment to ethical principles and genuine interactions. Integrity is about doing the right thing, even when no one is watching, and it inherently builds trust with clients, colleagues, and stakeholders.

When professionals operate with integrity, they create a foundation for ethical decision-making and foster a culture of transparency and accountability. This holds true across various fields, as integrity influences not only individual actions but also the overall reputation and reliability of the profession.

While courtesy, honesty, and justice are all important aspects of professional conduct, they can be seen as components or outcomes of a deeper commitment to integrity. For instance, while honesty promotes truthful communication, it is the integrity behind that honesty that makes it meaningful and trustworthy. Ultimately, integrity is what propels individuals to consistently align their actions with ethical standards, making it the most fundamental principle of professional conduct.