In writing your values statement, think about what principles will guide your ethical decision making. I also want to know about people and experiences that have helped you develop this moral compass you will use.

Here's two ways to think about what I'm asking you to write:

1. Think about the third quadrant of the Potter Box, the Principles Quadrant. In a significant way, this assignment is asking you to explain what principles you bring the that principles quadrant. So, for example, my guiding principles can best be explained as tilting toward Aristotle's Golden Mean in that I want to attempt to find a fitting balance between the conflicting values (or, as Aristotle would have termed it, the balance between the two extremes. I also attempt to minimize harm to the best of my ability. Therefore, as I move toward finding the "golden mean," I'm most often tilting a bit toward the action that will minimize harm.

2. Think about this Values Statement as being your personal code of ethics. Most codes begin with a preamble. Usually the preamble is really an expression of principles the organization holds most important.

Following the preamble, you'll find a more specific expression of values. For example, the Society of Professional Journalists Code of Ethics lists four values: Seek truth and report it; minimize harm; act independently; be accountable. (In fact, in considering this assignment, I urge you to look at codes of ethics related to your eventual field of work. You don't need to embrace it completely (or even partially, for that matter), but it might provide you with a good starting point.

Remember, as you articulate your overarching principles and the values that flow from them, make sure to give me a sense of how you got here. Again, what people and experiences have influenced the principles and values you hold?