Ethics: meaning, definitions and examples

Used similarly to the first, often interchangeably, to refer to general principles of right and wrong in any context.

• His ethics prevented him from lying, even when it was difficult.
• The professor teaches a course on ethics and decision-making.

Used in academic or intellectual discussions to refer to the study of questions about what is right and wrong.

• She is studying moral philosophy at the university.
• Classical moral philosophy includes the works of Aristotle and Immanuel Kant.

Used when discussing fundamental ideas about right and wrong that guide behavior.

• His strong moral principles guide his actions.
• The community is founded on shared moral principles.

Mostly used in discussions about personal or cultural beliefs and values that determine what is considered right and wrong.

• She instills moral values in her children.
• Moral values vary greatly between different cultures.