Ethical communication has several principles or foundational elements. Communicating fact-based messages honestly and accurately is central to ethical communication. Ethical communication values freedom of expression, diversity of perspective and tolerance of dissent. But while ethical communication should be honest and straightforward, it should never offend or provoke listeners.

Ethical communication allows access to the resources and facts that helped formulate the message. For example, if you are sharing information about stock performance, you are obligated to provide your audience with annual reports, filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission or shareholder reports.

Communicating in an ethical manner also requires making the message accessible. This means if you are delivering a message to a large or diverse audience, ensure that you accommodate the languages and listening preferences of everybody. Even though the official language in the U.S. is English, there are millions of visitors and legal residents whose first language is not English. To deliver a message that can be understood by a diverse audience requires engaging linguists or translators who can assist you in making the message accessible to all.

In addition to making the message accessible and respecting the diversity of thought and perspective, ethical communication means being considerate of basic human needs. Avoiding words and language that are demeaning or intolerant and refraining from messages that promote or incite violence is paramount to ethical communication.

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3 years ago