Ethics versus Morals comparison chart
Ethics
Morals
What are
The rules of conduct recognized in respect to a
Principles or habits with respect to
they?
particular class of human actions or a particular
right or wrong conduct. While morals
group or culture.
also prescribe dos and don'ts,
morality is ultimately a personal
compass of right and wrong.
Where do
Social system - External
Individual - Internal
Because society says it is the right thing to do.
Because we believe in something
they come
from?
Why we do
it?
Flexibility
The "Gray"
Origin
Acceptability
being right or wrong.
Ethics are dependent on others for definition.
Usually consistent, although can
They tend to be consistent within a certain
change if an individual’s beliefs
context, but can vary between contexts.
change.
A person strictly following Ethical Principles may
A Moral Person although perhaps
not have any Morals at all. Likewise, one could
bound by a higher covenant, may
violate Ethical Principles within a given system
choose to follow a code of ethics as it
of rules in order to maintain Moral integrity.
would apply to a system. "Make it fit"
Greek word "ethos" meaning"character"
Latin word "mos" meaning "custom"
Ethics are governed by professional and legal
Morality transcends cultural norms
guidelines within a particular time and place