Equitable, fair, and just dealing with people that, although pragmatically flexible according to the situation and times, conforms to self-imposed high standards of public conduct. Once practically interchangeable with 'moral,' this term has acquired quasi-legal connotations and has moved closer to 'legitimate' following the recent (second half of the 20th century) schism between private ... Read more

USAGE EXAMPLE

The HR rep was concerned that Meredith's conduct was not ethical and may have violated the company's standards and morals.