Which statements would the nurse evaluate as correctly identifying difference between ethics and law?
A) Ethics applies to conduct and actions, and the law applies to motive and attitude.
B) Ethics focuses on the individual whereas law focuses on society as a whole.
C) Ethics are externally determined.
D) Law relies heavily on judicial enforcement.
E) Ethics can change situationally, but laws are static and unchangeable.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Rationale 1: Both ethics and the law apply to conduct, actions, and motive. Attitude is more associated with ethics.
Rationale 2: Ethics, like values, is individualistic and is subject to philosophical, moral, and individual interpretations. The law focuses on rules and regulations that guide society in a formal and binding manner.
Rationale 3: Ethics describes conduct or principles that are internalized.
Rationale 4: The legal system, including the judicial branch, is founded on rules and regulations that guide society in a formal and binding manner.
Rationale 5: Ethical values are subject to philosophical, moral, and individual interpretations and may change as the person grows and develops. Laws are more formal, but can also be changed.

Which Statements Would the Nurse Evaluate as Correctly Identifying Difference