American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

From whom can a planner seek informal advice on ethics?

1. Senior planners

2. Colleagues

3. Ethics Officer

4. Community leaders

The correct answer is: Ethics Officer

A planner can seek informal advice on ethics from the Ethics Officer, as this individual is specifically tasked with overseeing ethical standards and practices within an organization or planning department. The Ethics Officer is well-versed in the relevant laws, guidelines, and codes of conduct that govern professional behavior in planning. This position serves as a valuable resource for clarifying ethical dilemmas and providing guidance to planners who may have questions or concerns about their actions or decisions related to ethical issues. While senior planners and colleagues may offer useful perspectives based on their experience, they do not possess the same level of expertise and authority on ethical matters as an Ethics Officer. Their advice may be beneficial for general inquiries or practical issues but might not fully address the nuances of ethical concerns. Community leaders, while significant stakeholders in the planning process, typically do not have the training or responsibility to provide formal ethical guidance, making them less appropriate sources for addressing specific ethical questions. Thus, seeking advice from the Ethics Officer is the most reliable option for ensuring compliance with ethical standards in planning.