Ethics and the Archival Profession: Introduction and Case Studies

This book is a an explanation of the 1992 revision of their "Code of Ethics for Archivists." The code governs the ethical conduct of archivists. Karen Benedict strives, in this work, to make a firm distinction between ethical and professional principles. Benedict notes that the 1992 version of the code did not make this distintion. The SAA produced a revision of the code in 2005, which means that parts of this book seem to no longer apply to the current code. Benedict outlines several practical areas that ethics affects within institutions. She notes that the code recommends that institutions avoid competition. This recommendation raises several questions pertaining to how archivists practically do this. Another area of practical concern is donor relations. This is of concern because relating to donors often touches upon legal issues (right to privacy, taxes, intellectual property) and ethical issues (access, confidentiality, and authenticity.) Other practical areas for ethics include professional benchmarks regarding issues such as staffing and budget. These issues determine how well archives can preserve collections. Benedict addresses the distinctions between laws and ethics, and notes that occasionally, these two come into conflict. Benedict recommends that in such circumstances, archivists much act in accord with conscience with full understanding of the potential consequences for their actions. She contends that the main areas of legality that archivists generally have to reckon with are issues of privacy rights and property rights, and she urges that archivists should be aware of the laws that govern these areas. The book also provides a variety of helpful case studies that touch upon every area of the 1992 revision of the code. Benedict provides several helpful appendices, one of which includes the 1992 revision of the "Code of Ethics for Archivists." Although many of the sections of the code have now changed, the issues addressed in this book are of enduring value. Although many of the case studies no longer apply to the newly released code, they still serve as helpful guides to appropriate professional conduct for archivists.