Related to what is right and wrong in human behavior. It describes actions, choices, or rules that follow accepted moral principles.
From Greek *ēthikos* 'moral, relating to character', from *ēthos* 'custom, habit, character'. It entered English through Latin and Old French.
Ethical choices are about more than 'following rules'; they ask what kind of person you are becoming through your habits. The word’s root in *ēthos*—character—reminds us that ethics is about who you are when no one is watching. That’s why tiny decisions, repeated, end up mattering so much.
What has been labeled 'ethical' in law, medicine, and business has often reflected the perspectives of dominant groups, with women and marginalized people excluded from decision‑making bodies. Gendered double standards in judging 'ethical' behavior have affected areas like sexual conduct, caregiving, and professional advancement.
When calling something 'ethical,' be transparent about whose values and which frameworks you are using, and consider how different gender groups are affected by the practices in question.
["morally responsible","aligned with stated values","fair"]
In discussions of ethical theory and practice, recognize contributions from women and marginalized ethicists whose work has broadened understandings of care, justice, and power.
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