What distinguishes social ethics from other forms of ethics?

Social ethics is defined by society and the accepted practices within it, making it distinct from other forms of ethics. This framework considers the shared values, norms, and expectations that help guide behavior within a community or society. Unlike universal ethics, which might attempt to apply the same principles across all cultures, social ethics recognizes that moral standards can vary significantly depending on cultural and societal context.

By evaluating ethical issues through the lens of societal norms, social ethics is adaptive and reflective of the values held by the community at a given time. It emphasizes collective well-being and the moral responsibilities that individuals have towards one another within their social context. This approach stands in contrast to the idea that ethics derive solely from legal statutes, which can change independently of social values, or a singular focus on individual choices that may not take into account the broader societal implications of those choices.