What does ethics primarily govern in civilized societies?

Ethics primarily governs moral conduct in civilized societies, as it encompasses the principles and standards that guide individuals and groups regarding what is considered right or wrong. Ethical frameworks help shape societal norms and provide a basis for individuals to assess their behavior in various situations. This moral compass influences how people interact with one another and make decisions that affect their communities, contributing to the overall integrity and functioning of society.

While financial transactions, physical conduct, and political decisions may be influenced by ethical considerations, they are often more specific domains where ethical principles apply rather than the broad, encompassing nature of morality itself. This makes moral conduct the fundamental aspect that ethics governs, establishing a guideline for behavior across all areas of life.