Are ethics and morals considered the same concept?

Ethics and morals are related concepts, but they are not the same. Morals refer to individual beliefs and values about what is right and wrong, often shaped by culture, religion, and personal experiences. They are subjective and can vary widely between individuals and groups.

On the other hand, ethics refers to a system or set of principles that govern the behaviors of a group or organization. Ethics are more structured and often codified into formal guidelines or codes of conduct. For instance, professional ethics in fields like medicine or law set standards for the behavior expected from practitioners, emphasizing collective standards rather than individual beliefs.

Understanding this distinction is crucial for a Direct Support Professional as it highlights the importance of adhering to ethical standards while respecting the diverse moral perspectives of the individuals they support.