Which term typically refers to the principles of right and wrong behavior?

The term that typically refers to the principles of right and wrong behavior is ethics. Ethics encompasses the systematized study of these principles, guiding individuals in determining what actions are right or wrong within a given context. It provides a framework for analyzing moral dilemmas and making decisions that align with established standards of conduct.

Morals, while closely related, denote individual beliefs about right and wrong. They are often shaped by personal, cultural, or religious values and can vary significantly from person to person. Therefore, while "morals" refer to personal beliefs, "ethics" refers to the systematic study and application of those beliefs within broader societal or professional standards.

Utilitarianism and deontology are specific ethical theories. Utilitarianism focuses on the outcomes of actions, suggesting that the right action is the one that produces the greatest good for the greatest number. Deontology emphasizes duties and rules, asserting that certain actions are morally obligatory regardless of their consequences. These theories guide ethical reasoning but do not define the overarching principles of right and wrong behavior as broadly as ethics does.