IB Digital Society 2.7 Values and Ethics Key Definitions

An ethical framework that judges an action by its outcomes. Its best-known form, utilitarianism, says the right action is the one that produces the greatest good for the greatest number.

A rule-based ethical framework that judges an action by whether it follows a duty or rule, regardless of the outcome, so some acts are simply right or wrong in themselves.

Values are the things a person or group holds to be important, and ethics are the systems of reasoning used to decide what is right, fair, or just. Together they guide how people judge and act.

A character-based ethical framework that asks not just what to do but what a good person would do, focusing on virtues such as honesty, fairness, and courage.