Which term defines the moral guidelines that dictate whether actions are right or wrong?

The term that defines the moral guidelines determining whether actions are right or wrong is ethics. Ethics serve as a foundational framework for assessing human conduct and decision-making, often guiding individual and collective behavior in various fields, including biotechnology.

This concept encompasses the principles and values that inform what is considered acceptable or unacceptable, helping professionals navigate complex issues such as consent, equity, and the potential societal impacts of biotechnological advancements. In a field that often faces ethical dilemmas, understanding these guidelines is crucial for maintaining integrity and accountability.

Other terms such as policy, regulation, and protocol have distinct meanings and purposes. For instance, policy refers to a set of formal guidelines or principles that govern actions and decisions within an organization or sector. Regulation entails rules established by authorities to control or govern behaviors in various areas, often with legal implications. Protocols are established procedures or steps to be followed in specific situations, particularly in research and experimentation. While all these aspects are important in the landscape of biotechnology, ethics specifically deals with the morality underlying these practices.