Which of the following is NOT a value that public officials should adhere to?

Public officials are expected to adhere to values that promote integrity, trust, and service to the public. Among these values, patriotism, accountability, and loyalty are recognized as important principles guiding the behavior and decisions of those in public service.

Patriotism emphasizes a commitment to the nation and its constituents, fostering a sense of duty and civic responsibility. Accountability is vital as it ensures that public officials are responsible for their actions and decisions, promoting transparency and trust in government operations. Loyalty, while often interpreted in various contexts, in a public service framework typically refers to loyalty to the Constitution, laws, and the welfare of the public rather than to individuals or partisan interests.

In contrast, corruption fundamentally undermines these values and is antithetical to the ethical standards expected of public officials. It represents a breach of trust and can lead to the detriment of public interests. Therefore, identifying corruption as a value that public officials should not adhere to aligns with the core principles set forth in the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards, which aims to uphold integrity and ethical governance.