Identify the incorrect statement related to characteristics of a “Profession”:
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 4
The correct answer is Option (4) → Not bound by a code of conduct for guiding the behaviour of its members.
Option (1) A well-defined body of knowledge. — A characteristic of a profession (Incorrect). Every profession rests on knowledge that can be learnt, as a doctor learns medicine.
Option (2) Entry restricted through an examination or through acquiring an educational degree. — A characteristic of a profession (Incorrect). Only those who pass the set examination or hold the set degree may enter.
Option (3) Affiliation to a professional association which regulates entry, grants certificate of practice. — A characteristic of a profession (Incorrect). Lawyers in India, for example, must be members of the Bar Council.
Option (4) Not bound by a code of conduct for guiding the behaviour of its members. — Not a characteristic of a profession (Correct). The statement is the reverse of the truth. Every profession is bound by an ethical code of conduct that guides the behaviour of its members; doctors, for example, take an oath of ethical practice when they join.
NCERT (2026-27 Edition): “Management as a Profession … (i) Well-defined body of knowledge: All professions are based on a well-defined body of knowledge that can be acquired through instruction.” “(ii) Restricted entry: The entry to a profession is restricted through an examination or through acquiring an educational degree. …” “(iii) Professional association: All professions are affiliated to a professional association which regulates entry, grants certificate of practice and formulates and enforces a code of conduct. …” “(iv) Ethical code of conduct: All professions are bound by a code of conduct which guides the behaviour of its members. All doctors, for example, take the oath of ethical practice at the time they enter the profession.” |