According to the text, how are public servants held in terms of ethical behavior?

Public servants are held to a higher standard than average citizens due to the nature of their roles and responsibilities. This higher standard reflects the expectation that those in positions of public trust will act with integrity, transparency, and accountability. The actions of public servants can have significant impacts on communities and the public at large, which necessitates an elevated ethical framework.

Ethical behavior in the public sector is essential in maintaining the confidence of the public and ensuring that government officials act in the best interest of the community they serve. This involves not only adhering to established laws and regulations but also embracing principles that go beyond mere compliance. Being held to a higher standard encourages public servants to engage in actions that foster trust, uphold democratic values, and ensure responsible governance.

In contrast, option referencing the same standards as private sector employees does not account for the unique ethical implications of public service, while suggesting flexible standards undermines the need for consistency and accountability in governance. The idea of no specific standards would lead to a lack of guidance for ethical behavior, which is contrary to the frameworks established for public officials.