Abstract:
Meeting public service ideals have to be supported by high levels of integrity. While
legislative, institutional and administrative measures exist, it is the view of the author
that having a keen grasp and understanding of the conceptual (tools of thought)
foundations of integrity will enhance the implementation of these measures. The
various notions, meanings and definitions of integrity suggest that it is a self-reflecting,
continuous learning and anticipatory process. It is a condition embedded in the
disposition to achieving intrinsic worth as a means and as an end, pursued with an
ethical and moral compass as well as authentically, courageously and credibly. The
outcome is the unswerving and dedicated performance of duty in conformity with the
prevailing measures and consistent with espoused, interwoven, integrity-related values
such as: trust, honesty, commitment, loyalty, responsibility, humility and wisdom.
