The concept of integrity

Disclaimer:  What you read here are my recollections and opinions of events that I experienced with Allstate - and should not be considered statements of fact.  

Integrity is a word we hear often, especially when discussing the values that underpin trust in society*. Whether it’s among colleagues, politicians, or businesses, integrity is held up as essential—after all, no one wants to be deceived and taken advantage of. Companies like Allstate loudly claim to value and operate with integrity, emphasizing its importance.

* Trust builds social capital.  Definitions: 1 2 3 4 5 6


Allstate advertises it values integrity

Our Shared Purpose highlights Allstate's values: Integrity, Inclusive Diversity & Equity and collective success. These values are woven into our business culture, defining who we are and what matters most. As a purpose-driven company, we stay true to our values to help customers, communities and each other.


Allstate Code of Ethics


The 10-page document, which basically tells employees not to do anything that will make Allstate look bad - either illegality or conflicts of interest.  It does mention the following:
  • Allstate is committed to operating its business with honesty, integrity and the highest level of ethical conduct.
  • As one of Allstate’s core values, integrity must be part of all business goals and activities.
  • We act honestly and deal fairly and ethically with customers, suppliers, competitors and other employees.

Global code of business conduct

Thomas J. Wilson. Chair, President and CEO, Courtney Welton, Chief Ethics & Privacy Officer, and  Jocelyn Liu, Chief Compliance Officer,  proclaim the importance of integrity so it must be important.  

In Allstate’s “Global code of business conduct”, the word integrity is about two dozen times, including the following:
  • We live with integrity on a global scale
  • The Allstate family of companies is united under one Global Code of Business Conduct, committed to the highest degree of integrity.
  • We pride ourselves on being different — a difference built on integrity and trust.
  • Our Values define what it means to be part of the Allstate family of companies.  Integrity is non-negotiable.
  • Integrity is at the heart of who we are. It’s non-negotiable.
  • Responsibility is something given to you, and accountability is something you must take upon yourself. It’s about integrity, results and ownership. 
  • Act with integrity in a manner that protects the Company’s reputation.
  • Participating in the political process with integrity means we:
  • We can rely on our integrity to guide us, ...
  • It’s only through our collective power that we achieve greatness as a company — through daily acts of integrity that protect and empower our customers.
  • We work hard and play fair, engaging in the marketplace with the integrity, respect and accountability...
  • Honoring Our Value of Integrity in this way earns customer loyalty, enhances our reputation and strengthens our ability to grow and thrive.... 
  • Selling and marketing with integrity means we comply with all laws and regulations in all markets where we do business.
  • ... our integrity compels us to treat our competitors fairly and honorably.
  • ... our partners and customers need to understand that we always act with integrity. 
  • We succeed with integrity, never allowing personal interests or activities to interfere with what is best for our Company. 
  • Our commitment to integrity compels us to do what is right for the people who are relying on us. 
  • By holding ourselves to the same standards of integrity and accountability online as in the workplace, we do the right thing for our customers, our stakeholders, our communities and our Company. 

Code of Consumer Rights & Responsibilities

Right to professional service
  • You have the right to deal with insurance professionals who exhibit a high ethical standard, which includes acting with honesty, integrity, fairness and skill. 


But what is integrity?   

Everyone seems to desire it, yet few can define it clearly, and even fewer live by it. At its core, integrity is a matter of character. It is the quality of being honest, reliable, and guided by a strong moral compass. A person with integrity acts in good faith, choosing to do what is right and just, even when it is not easy or convenient.

Integrity is rooted in morality rather than legality. The distinction between morality and ethics—often used interchangeably—is a complex debate beyond the scope of this discussion. While something may be legal, such as abortion, it could be inherently immoral. Conversely, certain illegal acts, like speeding, may not conflict with one’s moral principles.

The essence of integrity is captured in words such as decency, goodness, honesty, honour, morality, righteousness, and virtue. These qualities represent the best of human character. Conversely, a lack of integrity manifests in traits like deceitfulness, corruption, hypocrisy, immorality, and wickedness—attributes all too often associated with charlatans, opportunists and, regrettably, many politicians.

Integrity is not just a word; it is the foundation for trust and respect in our personal and professional lives. It is a value that transcends words and demands action, shaping not only individuals but the society we strive to build.



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