Which of the following best describes ethical principles?

The best description of ethical principles is rules of conduct based on ethical values. This option captures the essence of ethical principles as they provide a framework for guiding behavior and decision-making in various situations, particularly in professional settings such as correctional and probation services. Ethical principles are grounded in shared values and provide a foundation for accountability, integrity, and responsibility, which are crucial for maintaining trust and upholding justice in the field.

Ethical principles serve to align individual actions with collective standards of right and wrong, guiding professionals to make decisions that reflect the values of fairness, respect, and integrity. This foundation is essential in a correctional or probation context, where officers often must navigate complex moral dilemmas.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately encapsulate the essence of ethical principles. Random beliefs about morality lack the structured and universal aspect that ethical principles provide. Regulations enforced by the government pertain more to legal frameworks rather than ethical standards, which can operate independently of law yet still hold significant importance in guiding professional conduct. Personal convictions that are not meant to be shared disregard the communal aspect of ethical principles, which rely on shared values and accountability within a professional environment.