1. Chapter 1 Ethics and the Law

2. Defining Ethics Morality: The values that govern a society’s attitude toward right and wrong. Ethics: The means for determining what a society’s values ought to be.

3. How are ethical decisions made? The Golden Rule “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” Feelings and Opinions Cultures Traditions The Greatest Good The more good that results, the more ethical the action

4. Ethical Character Traits: Honesty Allows a person to be open and truthful with other people. Justice Allows a person to treat other people with justice Compassion Allows a person to care for others Integrity Allows a person to do what is right, regardless of personal consequences

5. What are Laws? Rules of conduct established by the government of a society to maintain stability and justice.

6. Why do we need laws? People do not always do what they ought to do How do ethics and laws conflict? Laws are made by people who bring their own personal opinions and views on ethics and morality to the process

7. Sources of Law Federal and State Constitution s Administrative Law Statutes Court Decisions English Common Law

8. What is the most fundamental law? U.S. Constitution Fundamental rights Defines limits Describes the functions of the branches of govt.

9. Articles I- VII Articles I, II, III sets the structure and powers of branches Article IV requires each state to give “full faith and credit” to the laws of other states Article V explains how it can be amended (changed) Article VI Supremacy clause (“Supreme Law of the Land”) Article VII Provided for ratification (1787)

10. State Constitutions  Each state has its own  They are not identical to federal  They often are more protective, narrow, and restrictive

11. Common Law (shared law)  Legal systems of states have roots back to England (except Louisiana; its roots are French)  Early courts based their decisions on customs and traditions; as a result creating precedent. Stare Decisis: “Let the decision stand”

12. Statutory Law: Laws specifically passed by a governing body created for that purpose

13. Where can statutory laws be found? (State, Federal, City Ordinances, Town Bylaws) State  Taxes  Seat belt laws  School requirements Federal  Power to spend  Regulate commerce  Declare war  Borrow money  Set up federal courts

14. Court made law is also known as o Case law o Court decisions o Judge-made law

15. Administrative Agencies (Regulatory Agencies) A department of the government formed to administer particular legislation. 1.Make their own rules 2.Enforce their rules 3.Investigate violations of their rules 4.Decide the guilt or innocence of those who violate their rules A court can review any decision made by an agency.