How to Differentiate Ethics From Values
Ethics and values seem to represent the same concept on the surface; however, some nuances exist that can allow you to distinguish ethics from values. You need to learn the definition and uses of both words in order to fully understand them. Over time, you will increase your ability to distinguish the two concepts.
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Instructions
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Define ethics. Ethics deals with actions and decisions. When a person acts consistently with beliefs from a moral authority, they act ethically. Defining a common moral authority represents some difficulty; however, ethics derive from that common understanding of a people. This stems from society, not an individual.
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Define values. Values deal with a personal sense of actions and decision-making. This can come from personal beliefs influenced by society, thus causing some confusion. A person can have values that mirror those of society, so ethics and values will overlap in that sense.
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Compare the two. If a person acts in accordance with values, they act out of their personal sense of moral authority. If they act in accordance with ethics, they act out of society's sense. Over time, you can spot the difference readily.
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