What are ethics generally considered to be?

Ethics are generally considered to be principles that dictate personal behavior. They encompass a set of moral values and standards that guide individuals in determining what is right or wrong in various situations. These principles influence decisions, shape character, and govern how individuals interact with one another and society as a whole.

While ethics can indeed impact business practices, their foundational purpose is to provide a framework for personal conduct beyond just the workplace. This means that ethics play a vital role not only in professional settings but also in personal relationships and society at large. They guide individuals in making choices that affect their integrity and the welfare of others, establishing a moral compass for both personal and professional environments.

Other options present narrower interpretations of ethics. For instance, guidelines for financial success or strategies for market competition do not encompass the broader impact of ethics on personal behavior and moral reasoning. Similarly, rules for employee conduct might touch on ethical principles but do not fully represent the wide-ranging nature of ethics that applies to all individuals, not just employees within a company.