Morality versus Ethics

I recently gave this talk to government and business leaders in the country of Madagascar and I thought you might enjoy reading it. The term morality and ethics is often used interchangeably though they both have two different meanings. Ethics is the right and wrong according to society or the most acceptable standard while morality is the right and wrong according to God’s standards. Both are necessary and without a moral standard, ethics can be relative. My father had 3 wives. In his culture and during the times when he lived, it was an acceptable ethical practice. But according to biblical moral standards, this would not have been acceptable, especially in the new covenant.

What is Morality and Ethics

Righteousness exalts a nation but sin is a reproach to any people. Proverbs 14:34

Both ethics and morality are necessary

• Morality sets the baseline for good ethics
• Ethics enables society to develop their own social covenant
• Without morality, ethics is relative

Healthy and thriving societies and institutions are built on good morals and sound ethics

Three Essential Institutions for the Flourishing Society

Then God blessed them, and God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it; have dominion…” Genesis 1:28a

The Key to Success for a Flourishing Institution/Society

And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first Commandment.” Proverbs 14:34