Course Description
This course provides a strong theoretical foundation for solving ethical dilemmas in the field of criminal justice. Students will gain a realistic picture not only of what ethical questions arise, but, also how sound moral decisions are made in response to them.
Topical Outline
- Introduction
- Police Professionalism
- The Nature of Police Work
- Why Be Ethical?
- What Is Character?
- The Development of Character
- Ethical Formalism
- Utilitarianism
- An Ethic to Live By
- Judgment Calls
- Types of Police Misconduct
- The Causes of Police Misconduct
- Practical Applications
- The Law Enforcement Code of Ethics
- Being a Good Officer
At the end of this course, students will be able to:
- Identify the vocabulary of ethics – i.e. morals, ethics and values.
- Explain the ethical responsibilities of law enforcement of the Criminal Justice System.
- Examine the major arguments supporting the importance of studying ethics in the criminal justice field.
- Identify and explain the major ethical codes applicable to criminal justice situations.
- Analyze an ethical dilemma common to criminal justice.
- Articulate ethical issues in the prosecution of criminal cases.