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Introduction Communication is a concept that is controversial, especially with the dynamics of the information age. There is confusion on what is right and wrong in communication, creating a never ending debate. Ethics help in providing guidelines for appropriate actions and decisions. Ethical communication allows for one to communicate to the audience the intended message in the right way, without bias. It encompasses honesty, confidentiality where necessary and openness. Adhering to ethical and moral principles when communicating ensures minimal negative consequences, hence, positive action and reaction from the audience. This makes it a crucial aspect of leadership. It is important to note that effective and ethical communication is different. For instance, a charismatic leader such as a politician has the ability to appeal to the emotions of the masses, but if the truth is exaggerated or hidden, this cannot be referred to as ethical communication. It is only effective. Ethical communication includes what is said as well as what is not said, hence the need to act as one preaches and correction of false impressions. Throughout human history, unethical communication has been portrayed as a powerful weapon of destruction. It has ruined interpersonal relationships, been used to support greed, corruption, oppression and tyranny within institutions as well as starting and fuelling economic injustice, violence and war, genocide and tribal conflicts among other social evils (Makau, 2009). Ethical communication has also been shown to foster human relationships, foster truth, honesty and peace, hence understanding and peace. This shows the power that communication holds, more so, ethical communication. Being a topic that covers a wide range in everyday life, there are numerous approaches to this subject based on different aspects. Some approaches focus on means, intention and consequences
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