Ethics

According to Merriam-Webster.com:

"Definition of ETHIC

1 plural but sing or plural in constr : the discipline dealing with what is good and bad and with moral duty and obligation
2 a : a set of moral principles : a theory or system of moral values —often used in plural but singular or plural in construction b plural but sing or plural in constr : the principles of conduct governing an individual or a group
c : a guiding philosophy
d : a consciousness of moral importance
3 plural : a set of moral issues or aspects (as rightness) "

I once attended a meeting about ethics in shamanism. There were a variety of levels of experience represented, including students who had recently found shamanism. It was the position of the shaman holding the meeting that, among other things, ethics prevented shamans from interfering with the lives of others without their permission, even when we believe it would be in their best interests. For example, if a hurricane were headed for Haiti, it would be unethical to attempt to divert it without the request of the people of Haiti.

One of the students disagreed with the shaman. The student asked if she saw person A abusing person B, shouldn't she try to stop it? The shaman replied that she should only get involved if person B asked for help.

What are your magickal ethics? When is the use of magick, healing, curses, etc appropriate? Do you need the permission of the people involved? Is using magick to get a job, win the lottery, or find a lover cheating? If you are in a coven, does your coven have a code of ethics?

I'm interested in what you think. Leave a comment telling me about your or your coven's code of ethics. My ethical rule: don't bash other comments. If you do, your comment will be removed.