What are positive character traits referred to in ethical discussions?

The correct choice, virtues, refers to positive character traits that are widely recognized in ethical discussions. Virtues are characteristics or qualities deemed to be morally good, and they shape an individual's behavior, guiding them toward ethical conduct. Examples of virtues include honesty, courage, compassion, and integrity. In ethics, these traits are essential as they contribute to an individual's overall moral character and help in making decisions that align with ethical standards.

Values, while related, denote the beliefs and standards that individuals or societies hold regarding what is important or worthwhile, but they do not specifically identify the innate qualities or character traits. Principles typically represent fundamental truths or propositions that serve as the foundation for a system of beliefs or behavior but lack the personal and moral connotations that virtues carry. Ethics itself is the broader field that encompasses these concepts, focusing on what is considered right or wrong in human conduct, rather than on the specific positive traits that individuals may possess.