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Interview Summary and Synthesis

Background Information
Ethics within the public sector describe the core values as well as actions and
consideration for decisions required in conducting daily tasks aimed at providing general
services. These standards define the appropriate moral behavior that corresponds to the
ideologies of a particular society regardless of the differences in culture. They also provide a
level through which the public scrutinizes the work conducted by their public administrators
based on accountability. Additionally, the decisions made by these staff should occur based on
ethical principles where the general public perceives to be correct. Nevertheless, the achievement
of these elements requires a permanent reflection based on the decisions made as well as their
impact based on moral perspectives (Menzel, 345). In my community, these elements have for
many years failed to uphold the ethical perspective of the public administrators. For instance, the
public officials employ unethical principles in making decisions regarding allocation of resources
directed towards the development of the community. Besides, some staff members face
allegations linking them to inappropriate use of public funds for their personal benefits.
However, to understand the depth of the matter, I conducted an interview with the area
commissioner to acquire some insight on the issues (Menzel, 345).
Introduction
Mr. Charles Arlington has served in the public sector department for over 16 years where
some of his responsibilities include ensuring development within the community regarding
economic, social and political activities. Additionally, his years in service have seen him
participate in many developmental meetings where agendas are laid out, and funds set aside.

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During his working experience in the department, Mr. Charles has acquired the necessary skills,
participated in the implementation of various policies and contributed towards making of
essential decisions regarding the community. These factors have largely contributed towards his
promotion throughout different levels in the public service sector where he now serves as the
commissioner. During the interview, Mr. Charles shared essential information that facilitated in
the arrival of my conclusion based on the problems facing our community.
Summary
According to Mr. Charles, serving in the public sector requires a set of values necessary
for achieving success both at a personal level and organizational level. Some of the values he
highlighted include accountability wherein serving the people, and the officials manage the
resources of the people in the community. Therefore, the public expects them to conduct their
services diligently with equality and fairness. Besides, the officials should portray transparency
in their activities in a way that ensures that they operate in agreement with the perception of the
public on the right thing. Most importantly, Mr. Charles elaborated on the allegations regarding
the misappropriation of public funds through clarification on the desired outcome (Menzel, 351).
For instance, he illustrated a case where the construction of a public dispensary drew mixed
reactions from the public on the how the project was conducted. Some of the people indicated
that the officials used the funds for their personal benefits while others thought the project
deserved more resources as opposed to the expectations of the public. However, he stated that the
completion of such projects requires due diligence in acquiring the resources which take time.
While responding to my questions, Mr. Charles seemed calm and composed as he explained the
facts regarding the requirements of his job description. He also demonstrated vast knowledge in
the public services activities since he has served in the department for more than decade.

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Conclusion
The public sector requires a range of values that facilitate in making decisions,
performing tasks and management of public resources. The interview with Mr. Charles brought
out significant elements that portray the importance of ethical issues in making decisions based
on the perception of the people on what seems right. Most importantly, the interview highlighted
some essential values necessary for the achievement of the public sector objectives. Some of
these values include transparency which serves the purpose of availing of the required
information to the public. Secondly, accountability ensures that government officials comply
with the standards of professionalism in their workplaces (Menzel, 363). These officials should
also incorporate a code of ethics in the aim to function efficiently. These should be coupled with
professionalism ion making considerations of the nature of the positions in public administration.

Works Cited
Menzel, Donald C. "Research on Ethics and Integrity in Public Administration: Moving
Forward, Looking Back." Public Integrity 17.4 (2015): 343-370. Print.