ART - Public Procurement 2015

The document discusses the underpinnings of the public procurement profession and the importance of professionalism and stewardship in this field. It mentions that true professionalism is based on stewardship, and compares it to the Hippocratic Oath that physicians take. The document also references Frances Hutcheson's advice from the 18th century, which suggests that while self-interest is a powerful motivator in contractual relationships, there is also a higher form of self-interest that leads individuals to perform acts of benevolence for others. It emphasizes that each public procurement official has the opportunity to act as a steward on behalf of the well-being of fellow citizens, and suggests that this can enhance the long-term prospects of a government. The document includes various references and sources related to the topic of public procurement and professionalism.