Final answer:
The key to being ethical indeed involves consistently choosing to do the right thing, following moral principles, and distinguishing from merely egoistic impulses. Ethical behavior requires understanding the distinction between morality and ethics, and it typically involves reflection, character, and informed decision-making.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement 'the key to being an ethical person or organization is to consistently choose to do the right thing' aligns with the principles of ethics that require individuals and organizations to act in accordance with moral principles.
Ethics involves a commitment to doing what is morally correct, even when it does not directly benefit oneself, hence distinguishing it from egoism. As such, consistently choosing to do the right thing is indeed a foundation for ethical behavior.
Morality vs. Ethics indicates that although related, they are not synonymous. Morality refers to the personal compass of right and wrong, while ethics refers to the rules provided by an external source, such as a profession, culture, or society.
Meta Ethics, which involves the discussion of ethical theories and language, helps us understand these concepts further. In any moral dilemma, like whether to protect a parent or follow the law, one's ethical stance is deeply tested.
Theories such as Virtue Ethics suggest that right actions stem from good character traits, which are cultivated through self-reflection and self-perfection.
Furthermore, Socrates linked ethics to epistemology, asserting that knowledge of the good guides virtuous action. Choices should be based on principles that go beyond personal gain, aiming for universal applicability, as suggested in discussions about Ethical Egoists and the Principle of Utility at institutions like the United Nations.
Thus, to be ethical, one must engage in moral inquiry and develop skills in ethical thinking that contribute to one's moral personhood.