A written code of ethics is an admission of failure.

Everyone knows what ethical behavior is. Having written guidelines are nothing more than a feel good measure to sooth the conscious of those who feel they must do "something", no matter how ineffectual.

Those who are ethical do not require a written code, those who are not would not adhere to it. So in the end, what is the point?

Put another way, the underlying assumptions behind a written code are:

1. No one knows what the rules (ethics) are.

2. Writing them down will (magically) make everyone follow them.

Both assumptions are false.

I understand this post is very strongly worded, because this is for me a core belief. Those who need a written code of ethics have no business being trusted--at all, in any capacity. You learn ethics in kindergarten. Just because you're in a position of power the rules don't change.

Frankly, it's disturbing that anyone (in any profession) ever felt the need to produce a written guideline for ethical behavior. Maybe for first graders as a remedial course. But not for adults.