What do ethics primarily govern?

Ethics primarily govern a person's understanding of right and wrong by establishing a framework that guides individuals in determining what is morally acceptable or unacceptable. Ethical principles influence personal judgments and behavior, allowing individuals to navigate complex situations and make choices that align with their moral beliefs.

While collective opinions and societal norms can influence ethical thinking, ethics themselves are centered on personal convictions and the reasoning behind what one perceives as right or wrong. This personal understanding is crucial, as it serves as the foundation for behaviors and decisions in various contexts, including professional environments such as correctional facilities. Regulatory compliance and laws, while important for maintaining order and structure within society, do not encompass the broader philosophical inquiry that ethics aims to address.