What term describes the principles of right and wrong that govern individual behavior?

The term that describes the principles of right and wrong governing individual behavior is personal ethics. Personal ethics refer to the values, virtues, and moral principles that an individual holds, which guide their decisions and actions in various situations. These ethics are shaped by one’s upbringing, culture, experiences, and beliefs, and they play a crucial role in how individuals perceive right and wrong conduct.

In contrast, situational ethics focuses on the context of a situation rather than strict moral rules, allowing for flexibility based on specific circumstances. Business ethics relates to the moral principles guiding behavior in a business environment, and culture refers to the collective beliefs and values of a group or society, which can influence but are not synonymous with individual behavior. Understanding personal ethics is vital as they reflect an individual's commitment to making morally sound choices in their everyday life.