How can ethics be distinguished from laws?

The distinction between ethics and laws is primarily rooted in their foundational nature and their sources. Ethics are deeply personal and are typically based on an individual's beliefs, values, and morals. These are derived from personal experiences, cultural influences, and philosophical considerations. On the other hand, laws represent the rules established by society and are meant to maintain order and protect the rights of individuals within a community.

While laws stem from societal standards and carry official documentation and consequences for violations, ethics remain subjective and may vary significantly from one individual to another or from one cultural context to another. This divergence highlights the innate flexibility of ethical beliefs compared to the more rigid structure of legal statutes. Therefore, the answer succinctly captures the essence of ethics being personal and based on individual beliefs, emphasizing the distinction from laws, which are guided by broader societal norms.