What are ethics best defined as?

Ethics are best defined as a set of moral principles. This definition encompasses the frameworks and guidelines that help individuals determine what is right and wrong, guiding their behavior and decision-making processes. In many professional and personal contexts, ethics serve as a foundation for conducting oneself in a manner that respects the dignity and rights of others.

Ethics often extend beyond personal beliefs, as they incorporate widely accepted standards that may be upheld by professional organizations or societal norms. While personal beliefs and cultural norms can influence an individual's ethical views, they do not provide the comprehensive definition that a set of moral principles offers. Legal regulations, though related to ethical considerations, are often enforceable rules imposed by the government and do not capture the broader essence of ethics, which is primarily concerned with moral reasoning and values that guide behavior.