Business has steered away from the term ethics, preferring to use:

• A. Good business practices, principles of professional conduct, or standards of business practice
• B. Compliance with the law
• C. Corporate social responsibility
• D. Moral philosophy

Answer: (A)

In professional settings, language shifts toward describing expected behavior as practical standards rather than abstract beliefs. The phrase good business practices, principles of professional conduct, or standards of business practice communicates concrete, observable expectations that guide day-to-day decisions and actions within the profession. It also aligns with codes of conduct and standards of practice that regulatory bodies and associations enforce, helping both practitioners and clients know what to expect and how to be accountable.

This framing is broader and more actionable than simply saying compliance with the law, which focuses on legality but may not cover professional duties or ethical behavior in everyday interactions. Corporate social responsibility centers on social impact beyond professional duties, and moral philosophy is abstract and personal rather than something a profession-wide standard can enforce. The chosen terms best reflect the professional and enforceable nature of expected conduct.