Elements to Support the Code:
There are some who will argue that a code, especially an ethics code, needs no
interpretation. Its principles are self-evident. Much like self-implementing codes, the idea that an application of a principle is self-evident ignores reality. The social psychological literature including Piaget, Kohlberg and Foucault, supports a far more uneven interpretation of even the simplest principles. As an example, if Kohlberg, or his critics, are correct there is a significant body of individuals in any large organization who need authoritative interpretation of codes. Most governments with ethics codes try to offer some authoritative advice. For example the Office to Counter Corruption in Thailand90 sees the advisory function as critical. Some governments provide the advice verbally, others provide it in writing. Some governments bind investigative and prosecutorial authorities to respect opinions given by the ethics office if the employee has fully disclosed his or her problem.