Which statement best describes independence and objectivity as an ethics topic?

• A. Independence and objectivity require avoiding relationships that impair independence.
• B. Confidentiality requires disclosing all client information to any third party.
• C. Professional skepticism means accepting management estimates without challenge.
• D. Confidentiality means never disclosing client information under any circumstance.

Answer: (A)

Independence and objectivity mean making judgments free from influence or bias, and from any situation that could appear to sway your judgment. The best statement captures this by saying independence and objectivity require avoiding relationships that impair independence. When a professional has a close personal, financial, or other relationship with a client, it can challenge both actual independence (your ability to judge without bias) and the appearance of independence (how others perceive your impartiality). Protecting both forms of independence helps maintain trust and integrity in the work.

Confidentiality is about keeping client information private and sharing it only with proper authorization or as legally required. Saying you would disclose all information to any third party runs contrary to that principle and is not allowed. Professional skepticism is not about taking management estimates at face value; it’s about questioning and testing assumptions and evidence rather than accepting them without challenge. Finally, confidentiality is not an absolute rule with no exceptions; there are legitimate times when disclosure is required by law, regulation, or professional duty.