Final answer:
Professional ethics are grounded in documents like Codes of Ethics, Codes of Conduct, Professional Standards, and relevant Laws and Regulations, each contributing to the ethical framework within which professionals operate.
Step-by-step explanation:
The foundations of professional ethics can be found in a number of documents that provide guidance to professionals in various fields. Among these, the Code of Ethics stands out as a primary document that clearly articulates the ethical principles and standards expected of professionals. For example, the American Sociological Association has its own Code of Ethics which members must abide by. Similarly, the IEEE Computer Society, a professional organization for individuals in the fields of computer science and engineering, has created the Software Engineering Code of Ethics and Professional Practice, specifying the ethical obligations of software engineers. In engineering education, students are required to gain an understanding of professional and ethical responsibility which is integral to their development as professionals.
In addition to Codes of Ethics, other documents that contain the basis for professional ethics include Codes of Conduct, Professional Standards, and various Laws and Regulations specific to the profession. Codes of Conduct typically address more specific behaviors and practices within the professional context. Professional Standards often outline the technical and operational expectations within a profession, and Laws and Regulations provide a legal framework that professionals must adhere to. Together, these documents shape the ethical landscape in which professionals operate.