An online collection has raised more than $145,000 for a man who stumbled onto a pile of money and turned it over to police. Glen James' story of a good deed is just one of many making headlines. It may not be exactly brand new, but public interest does seem to be piqued these days by ordinary folks making what are seen as extraordinary ethical decisions. What is the best meaning of the word "ethical" as it is used here?
In this context, the best meaning of the word "ethical" is behaving in a morally right and responsible manner.
In this context, the best meaning of the word "ethical" is acting in accordance with accepted principles of right and wrong, especially when it involves moral choices or decisions. It refers to conduct that is considered morally upright, honorable, and virtuous. In the given example, "extraordinary ethical decisions" imply that the actions taken by ordinary individuals go beyond what may be expected in terms of moral responsibility, thus garnering public interest.
To understand the best meaning of the word "ethical" as it is used in the given context, we can break down the sentence. The sentence mentions Glen James, who stumbled upon a pile of money and decided to turn it over to the police. It further states that public interest seems to be piqued by ordinary folks making extraordinary ethical decisions.
From this, we can infer that in this context, "ethical" refers to a decision or action that is morally right or virtuous. It suggests that Glen James made a principled and morally commendable choice by turning in the found money to the police, even though he could have kept it for himself.
To verify this interpretation and find the best meaning, we can also consult a dictionary. Here's a definition from Merriam-Webster:
"Ethical: conforming to accepted standards of conduct or moral behavior"
Based on this definition, the best meaning of "ethical" in this context is an action or decision that aligns with accepted moral standards or behavior. Glen James' act of turning over the money to the police reflects this ethical behavior.