What is the formal study of moral choices that conform to standards of conduct called?

The formal study of moral choices that conform to standards of conduct is indeed known as ethics. Ethics involves systematic approaches to understanding, analyzing, and distinguishing matters of right and wrong, good and bad, in various contexts, including healthcare, business, and personal behavior. It encompasses theories and principles that guide individuals and societies in making moral decisions, often reflecting cultural values and societal norms.

Ethics also provides frameworks for evaluating conduct and promoting accountability, which is crucial in professional fields such as healthcare, where decisions can significantly impact patient outcomes and overall public well-being. Through ethics, individuals can critically assess their actions and the consequences of those actions, aiming for integrity and social responsibility.

The other terms relate to moral concepts but do not encapsulate the formal study of those choices as effectively as ethics. Legalism refers to strict adherence to laws, which may not always align with moral considerations. Morality is a broad term that generally addresses principles concerning right and wrong behavior but does not specifically denote the academic or philosophical analysis of these principles. Normativity focuses more on standards or norms in general rather than the formal study of moral choices. Thus, ethics is the most accurate term for the formal analysis of moral decision-making processes.