The document discusses how ethics and ethical standards can change over time and differ between cultures and organizations. It provides definitions of ethics as moral principles that distinguish right from wrong. While some ethical norms like not harming people remain widely accepted, there is no universal standard for all ethical behaviors. Ethics can be influenced by legal, organizational, and individual factors. The document also summarizes two major approaches to ethics - deontology, which focuses on duties and rules, and utilitarianism, which focuses on producing the greatest happiness. Organizations are encouraged to develop codes of conduct, training, and accountability to promote ethical practices.