ETHICAL

Examples of ETHICAL in a sentence

• The company has established a set of ethical guidelines for employees to follow.
• It is important for journalists to adhere to ethical standards when reporting the news.
• The doctor’s ethical obligation is to prioritize the well-being of the patient.
• The decision to use environmentally friendly materials reflects the architect’s ethical values.
• Teaching children about the importance of honesty and fairness helps to develop their ethical awareness.
• The organization prides itself on its commitment to ethical business practices.
• There is ongoing debate about the ethical implications of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence.
• The lawyer faced an ethical dilemma when asked to represent a client whose actions conflicted with their personal values.

Etymology of ETHICAL

The term ethical has a rich etymological history, tracing its roots to ancient Greek philosophy and evolving over time to encompass various principles of moral conduct and behavior.

• Ancient Greek Origins: The word “ethical” derives from the Greek word “ethikos,” which pertains to character, disposition, or custom. In ancient Greek philosophy, ethics (or “ethika”) referred to the branch of philosophy concerned with moral principles, values, and the nature of right and wrong conduct.
• Philosophical Development: Ethical concepts were further developed by philosophers such as Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle, who explored questions of virtue, justice, and the good life. Aristotle’s ethical works, particularly his “Nicomachean Ethics,” laid the foundation for much of Western ethical thought.
• Latin Influence: The term “ethical” was later adopted into Latin as “ethicus,” reflecting the transmission of Greek philosophical ideas into Roman culture and language. In Latin, “ethicus” retained its original meaning related to character and morals.
• Medieval and Renaissance Periods: During the medieval and Renaissance periods, ethical discourse continued to evolve within the contexts of Christian theology, scholasticism, and humanism. Ethical considerations were intertwined with religious teachings, philosophical inquiries, and social norms.
• Modern Usage: In modern usage, “ethical” refers to principles of moral conduct, integrity, and responsibility, both in personal behavior and professional practices. Ethical considerations are central to fields such as medicine, law, business, and environmental stewardship.

Through its journey from ancient Greek philosophy to its contemporary usage, the term ethical embodies a rich tapestry of moral principles, philosophical insights, and cultural values, reflecting humanity’s ongoing quest for ethical understanding and moral guidance.

Synonyms

• Moral
• Virtuous
• Righteous
• Honorable
• Principled
• Upright
• Honest
• Conscientious

Antonyms

• Unethical
• Immoral
• Unprincipled
• Dishonest
• Corrupt
• Unrighteous
• Deceptive
• Unscrupulous