Lead with integrity in high-stakes environments. Explore ethical failures, military values, and leadership strategies that promote ethical conduct.
Dr David Whetham is Professor of Ethics and the Military Profession at King’s College London, based at the Joint Services Command and Staff College at the UK Defence Academy. He is also the Director of the King’s Centre for Military Ethics.
Ethics and Leadership is a self-paced online course developed by Professor David Whetham of King’s College London, designed to equip professionals with the tools to lead ethically in challenging environments. Whether you are a military officer, policymaker, or professional interested in ethical leadership, this course offers essential knowledge and practical strategies to guide decision-making under pressure. Throughout the course, you will explore why ethical failures occur and how to prevent them. You’ll examine how extreme situations can impact judgement, and how leaders can foster cultures of integrity through effective leadership and evidence-based training. The course uses real-world case studies, military contexts, and professional ethical standards to develop your ability to lead with principle. Structured into five progressive units, the course begins by analysing the root causes of unethical behaviour and advances to the practical application of ethical principles in leadership. You will explore how context influences decision-making, assess the role of leadership in shaping organisational values, and learn to embed ethical practices through education and training. Each unit combines theory and practical insights to help you develop leadership strategies that align with military values and the laws of armed conflict. By the end of the course, you will be equipped to critically assess ethical challenges, promote ethical conduct, and lead with integrity. No prior qualifications are required, and all course content is delivered in English. Learners are encouraged to reflect on their own experiences, question assumptions, and engage with others in meaningful discussions. This course is more than an academic exercise—it’s an opportunity to develop ethical leadership in real-world scenarios where the stakes are high, and the consequences of poor decisions can be profound. Whether leading teams on the ground or shaping policy from above, your leadership can drive ethical excellence. This is a short course that can be completed in 5 hours — designed to be flexible and fit into your schedule.
