Following Orders vs. Following Principles

I would presume that during our childhood, our parents instilled in us certain values and principles that we would be carrying for the rest of our lives; values such as Honesty, Integrity, and Respect. At an early age, we are taught to embrace these as it is the foundation into basically growing up to be a good person. We usually tell the truth, we would know what is right from wrong, and we would respect the people around us.

Later in life we acquire other values that would either strengthen our good natured character or bring out the dark force within us. This is where the conflict would arise and when encountered in certain situations such as in a work environment, it is very difficult to choose which side you should be on. It would be very challenging for us to make a just and honest decision that we would never want to regret later on.

What makes things more complicated is when you are given directives to make that decision that is against your values or principles. In my line of work, I encounter this crossroad almost everyday. My personal values are often challenged and stretched beyond its limit.

But let us take the example of a common foot soldier in the Army. Soldiers are bred to strictly live by a code and to honor it till the end. One of these codes would be to follow orders from higher ranking officials and adhere to the hierarchy or the chain of command. “If I say jump, you say how high.” (Quote taken from the movie Universal Soldier) Failure to follow orders would lead to consequences or disciplinary action and may even tantamount to Insubordination. You cannot in anyway question their orders.

But what if you are ordered to execute someone that you know deep inside you is not the right thing to do? Your personal values are preventing you from doing so; would you still do it then? To continue living with the knowledge that you wrongfully denied the life of a human being? Or take the risk of being subjected to sanctions for refusal to follow orders but having that peace of mind that you were principally correct in your decision to do what is just. Some countries wage wars in the name of peace, but is war really the right choice or path to take? In the famous words of the late US President – Theodore Roosevelt, “If I must choose between righteousness and peace, I choose righteousness.”

Any individual in any type of business or industry tries very hard to build a respectable reputation shielded by the values or “code” that they live by. When that shield is breached, you risk having your reputation tainted. I don’t want that happening to me.

So with that said, I will live by the code; “If I must choose between righteousness and resolution, I will choose righteousness.” because in the end, it is your name on the line and not the names of The Powers That Be.