How may professional ethics be defined?

Professional ethics can be defined as the expectations set by members of a particular group. This definition emphasizes that ethics within a profession are often based on shared norms, values, and practices specific to that field. These expectations are collectively agreed upon by practitioners in the profession to guide conduct, decision-making, and interactions with clients, colleagues, and the public.

These professional norms help ensure a standard level of integrity and accountability within the profession, and they may evolve over time as the profession itself changes. This is particularly important in fields such as healthcare, law, and education, where ethical conduct is essential for maintaining trust and ensuring that practitioners act in the best interest of those they serve.

The other options depict different concepts. Personal beliefs of individuals refer to subjective morals and philosophies that may not align with professional standards. Common laws governing a profession pertain to legal requirements, which may not cover all ethical considerations. Universal moral standards can be too broad and may vary significantly across cultures and contexts, making them less applicable specifically to professional conduct.