Ethics is a branch of philosophy that deals with identifying, defending and recommending concepts of right and wrong behaviour.
Ethos is a term that is used to describe principal beliefs or ideals that form the basis of a community, nation, or ideology.
Ethics is covered under UPSC Mains General Studies Paper IV (GS-IV).
Although the two words are linguistically similar, they are used distinctly in today’s world. This article will attempt to highlight the differences between the two within the context of the IAS Exam
The difference between Ethics and Ethos is given in the table below:
Differences between Ethics and Ethos
| Ethics |
Ethos |
| Ethics seeks to resolve questions of human morality by defining concepts such as good and evil, virtue and vice, justice and crime. | Ethos is the guiding belief that has the power to influence behaviours, emotions or even morals. |
| The English word “ethics” is derived from the Ancient Greek word ēthikós, meaning “relating to one’s character”. | Ethos forms the root word ēthikós meaning morality and character. |
| Ethics is universally applicable regardless of geographical constraints. | Ethos can vary from culture to culture, region or country. |
| Ethics can also refer to a common human ability to think about ethical problems relating to philosophy. | Ethos is one of the three modes of persuasion (other being logos and pathos). |
There are three major areas of study within ethics:
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There are three categories of ethos:
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Ethics and Ethos are broadly covered under the General Studies IV Paper (Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude) of the UPSC Exams. Aspirants can refer to the following links below to study this segment
- Ethics Notes for UPSC (Attitude)
- Strategy for GS Ethics Paper – IV
- Introduction of Ethics for UPSC Exams
- Difference between Ethics and Values
- Best UPSC Books for Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude Chapter
- UPSC Mains GS – IV Paper Structure
Difference Between Ethics and Ethos – Download PDF Here
Frequently Asked Questions about Ethics and Ethos
What are the 3 major areas of Ethics?
What is the definition of ethos?
Candidates can find the general pattern of the UPSC Exams by visiting the UPSC Syllabus page.
To know more about UPSC 2022, visit the linked article.
For more articles and exam-related preparation materials, refer to the links given in the table below:
Related Links
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