Topic 1: Ethics vs. Morals vs. Values

It’s important to understand the difference between ethics, morals, and values:

• Morals – Personal beliefs about right and wrong, shaped by upbringing, culture, and experiences.

• Values – Core beliefs and priorities that influence behavior (e.g., honesty, respect, kindness).

• Ethics – Professional standards and guidelines that ensure accountability and appropriate behavior in a specific field.

Example: You may personally value honesty, but ethical guidelines require confidentiality. If a peer confides in you about a personal matter, you cannot share that information—even if you believe honesty means full transparency.