Briefly define ethics as it relates to public speaking. Then explain the difference between ...

Ethics refers to issues of right and wrong, the moral implication of the message. Ethical issues must be considered when a speaker develops a topic, presents research, creates persuasive appeals, and handles many other tasks related to the presentation. An objective view of ethics says the morality of an act (such as delivering a communication message) is absolute and exists apart from any values or beliefs of individuals or cultures, that certain standards apply to all people in all situations at all times. A subjective view of ethics says the morality of an act depends on the cultures values and beliefs and on the particular circumstances surrounding the situation, that the end might justify the means even if the means might initially appear to be unethical.