The branch of philosophy that deals with the distinction between right and wrong, with the moral consequences of human actions. [G. ethikos, arising from custom, fr. ethos, custom]
- medical e. the principles of proper professional conduct concerning the rights and duties of the physician, patients, and fellow practitioners, as well as the physician's actions in the care of patients and in relations with their families.
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eth·ics 'eth-iks n pl but sing or pl in constr the principles of conduct governing an individual or a group <medical \ethics>
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eth·ics (ethґiks) [Gr. ēthos the manner and habits of man or of animals] 1. the rules or principles which govern right conduct. 1. the branch of philosophy that studies such principles.Medical dictionary. 2011.