Ethics in Politics, Ethics in Business

            When a politician does a favor for you, should he expect a favor in return?

            When you contribute to a politician’s election, should you expect a favor in return?

And, God speaks to me:

            “Keep your integrity or lose your soul. It is your choice.

            Confucius is credited with instructing his grandson Kong Ji in The Way. Kong Ji then wrote a book called The Constant Mean. The guidelines for business and politics have been used by the Chinese for centuries. They do admit they have fallen short of its ideals. It should be required reading for all our politicians and business leaders.

“If you do something for me, I will do something for you.”

“If I do something for you, I expect something from you.”

“I have this bill on my desk waiting for my signature. I know you want it to pass. By the way, I need about fifty thousand dollars in my campaign fund.”

            Is there any difference? What is the best business policy? Give a gift to the one who can make the decision to buy your product, or change a law to favor your business?

            When unethical people get together, then all citizens are harmed. This is an evil that affects everyone.

            So let’s say you are that unethical politician. Can you trust that unethical business person to stay true to you? What if they think that some other politician can be bought cheaper? What will keep them from telling of your involvement once they are discovered?

            Wouldn’t it be easier to just serve with honor and integrity? You might not gain the power and wealth, but the respect of the people should be worth something.

            So let’s say you are that unethical business person. Can you trust that unethical politician to stay true to you? What if they fear you might sell them out for your own gain? What if one of your competitors offers them a bigger bribe? What will keep them from telling of your involvement once they are discovered?

            Wouldn’t it be easier to just give an honest product or service for a fair price? It might be less profitable, but you will have the peace of mind that at least you are honest and fair to all your customers. They will eventually know what kind of person you are.

            The only things you take with you when you go to meet your maker are your honor, ethics, and morals. Your corrupting power and wealth will be a liability when you stand before God.