What guides our behaviors as individuals and as members of organizations?

The correct answer is ethics because ethics encompass the moral principles that guide individuals in determining what is right and wrong in their actions. Within both personal and organizational contexts, ethical standards influence decisions and behavior patterns. They establish a framework for assessing conduct in various situations, ensuring that individual actions align with broader societal values and organizational culture.

Ethics also play a crucial role in shaping relationships and trust among team members and stakeholders, thus promoting a cohesive working environment. When organizational members adhere to ethical guidelines, it fosters integrity and accountability, ultimately contributing to a positive reputation and long-term success for the organization.

In contrast, while norms might define expected behaviors within a group, they do not necessarily address the moral implications of those behaviors. Policies provide a set of rules for how things should be done, and incentives may motivate certain behaviors, but they do not inherently dictate what is considered moral or ethical. Therefore, ethics stand out as the guiding force that informs both individual conduct and the collective culture of an organization.