What is the best definition of ethics?

The best definition of ethics relates to guidance for actions taken for others. This definition encompasses the moral principles that govern a person's behavior or the conducting of an activity, especially in a social or professional context. Ethics is fundamentally about determining what is right and wrong, and how our actions affect others.

In various fields, such as medicine, business, or law, ethical guidelines are developed to promote integrity, fairness, and respect for others. This situational awareness and consideration of the broader impact of one's actions are crucial elements of ethical decision-making, as it emphasizes responsibility not just for oneself but also for the welfare of others involved.

The other definitions, while related to aspects of ethics, do not fully capture its essence. Legal guidelines in each state refer more to laws than ethical principles and do not necessarily reflect moral beliefs. Similarly, being based on personal beliefs may guide individual behavior, but ethics generally strives for a more universal approach that extends beyond personal views to include considerations of others and societal norms.