Morality refers to the differentiation of intentions, decisions, and actions between those that are distinguished as proper (right) and those that are improper (wrong) . It is a set of values, beliefs, and principles that guide an individuals behavior and decisions. Morality can be a body of standards or principles derived from a code of conduct from a particular philosophy, religion, or culture, or it can derive from a standard that a person believes should be universal. It is closely related to ethics, which is a system of moral principles.
There are two broad senses in which the term "morality" is used: a descriptive sense and a normative sense. In its descriptive sense, "morality" refers to personal or cultural values, codes of conduct, or social mores from a society that provides these codes of conduct in which it applies and is accepted by an individual. In its normative sense, "morality" refers to whatever (if anything) is actually right or wrong, which may be different from what people believe to be right or wrong.
Morality is a broad concept, and its meaning can differ depending on the context. It can refer to the actions and choices we make, or to the way we think and feel about those actions and choices. It can also refer to the values and beliefs that determine our behavior. Examples of morality include being honest, treating others with respect, helping those in need, and adhering to laws and social norms.
Morality is closely linked to culture and religion, and it can be impacted by an individuals personal beliefs and values. Empirical studies show that all societies have moral rules that prescribe or forbid certain classes of action and that these rules are accompanied by sanctions to ensure their enforcement. Among all societies, some moral rules are nearly universal, such as those forbidding murder, theft, infidelity or adultery, and incest, while others vary between societies or exist in some societies but not in others.
