ABSTRACT
In this chapter, some of the basic tenets involving the study of ethics are examined. Included are discussions on natural law its effects on ethics, the hierarchical order of virtues, the law of humanity, the ethics of law, philosophical theories of ethics, and moral implications of ethical codes. One central concern that we examine in this chapter is the question of where do we get the ethical principles on which we base our ethical decisions. Many individuals will contend that our ethical principles are given to us by a supreme being. Others will contend that our ethical principles are simply rules based on an implied agreement when we become a part of society.
