This study investigates the codification of ethics within the Marine Corps. The study analyzes the advantages and disadvantages of codification. It also presents a comparative analysis between several proposed codes and historic sources of ethical guidance used by the Marine Corps. This study concludes that, although an admirable goal, because of the disadvantages and inherent difficulties associated with codification, the Marine Corps should not publish a written code of ethics. But perhaps more important than the aforementioned, the Marine Corps' historic sources of ethical guidance are a more comprehensive and appropriate body of ethical guidance than any attempt at codification is likely to be.

ADA 273049 Approved for public release; Distribution is unlimited. The opinions and conclusions expressed herein are those of the student-authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College or any other governmental agency. (References to these studies should include the foregoing statement.)