The Difference between Morals and Ethics:

By: Sumaya Alsumayni

Both morals and ethics define the personality, attitude and behavior of a
person.

Origin: The term morals is derived from the Greek word ‘mos’ which refers to
custom and customs are determined by group of individuals or some authority.
Ethics is also derived from the Greek word ‘ethikos’ which refers to character and
character is an attribute.
Definition:
Morals: are the social, cultural and religious beliefs or values of an individual or
group which tells us what is right or wrong. They are the rules and standards
made by religion, society or culture.

Ethics: is a branch of philosophy that deals with the principles of conduct of an

individual or group. It works as a guiding principle as to decide what is good or
bad.

Governed by:
Morals: are governed by social religious and cultural norms.

Ethics: are governed by individual or legal and professional norms.

Deals with:
Morals: deal with the principles of right and wrong.

Ethics: deal with right and wrong conduct.

Applicability in Business:
Morals: do not have any applicability in business.

Ethics: is widely applicable in business, known as “business ethics”.

Consistency:
Morals: may vary from society to society and culture to culture.

Ethics: are generally uniform. They remain the same regardless of any culture,
religion or society.
Expression:
Morals: are expressed in the form of general rules and statements.
Ethics: are abstract.
Conclusion:
Morals and ethics are two sides of the same coin. While morals are dictated by
society, culture or religion, ethics are chosen by the person himself to help him
govern his life. Morals are framed and designed, so there is no option to think or
choose; individuals can either accept or reject. Conversely, people are free to
think and choose the principles of their lives as ethics suggest.
Examples:

Morals Ethics
 To be loyal Loyalty
 To always tell the truth Truthfulness
 Not to cheat Honesty