Meaning & Definition
noun
Moral principles that govern a person's behavior or the conducting of an activity.
She had a strong sense of ethics that guided her decisions in the challenging situation.
The branch of knowledge that deals with moral principles.
The course covered various theories in ethics including utilitarianism and deontology.
A set of moral principles, especially as relating to a specified group, field, or profession.
The medical profession has a code of ethics that dictates appropriate behavior.
Standards of behavior that dictate how individuals should act towards one another.
The company's ethics require transparency and integrity in all dealings.
Etymology
From Greek 'ethikos' which means 'pertaining to one's character'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
work ethics:
The principle that hard work is intrinsically virtuous or worthy of reward.
code of ethics:
A set of guidelines meant to help professionals conduct their business honestly and with integrity.
personal ethics:
An individual's own principles regarding right and wrong.
Slang Meanings
Ethical dilemma.
Deciding whether to report the misconduct created quite an ethical dilemma for her.
Ethics board.
The new project will have to go through the ethics board for approval.