Final answer:
Ethics codes separate general principles from enforceable standards to differentiate aspirational ideals from mandatory, actionable rules. General principles provide moral guidelines, while enforceable standards can be legally upheld and form the basis for ethical judgment in professional situations.
Step-by-step explanation:
The ethics code separates general principles from enforceable standards to distinguish between aspirational ideals and actionable rules that professionals must adhere to. General principles set the foundation for the desired moral and ethical behavior, serving as guidelines for the professional conduct that reflect the values of the field. Enforceable standards, on the other hand, are specific, measurable, and can be legally upheld; they form the basis for judging the propriety of specific actions when ethical issues arise.
In professional organizations like the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers Computer Society (IEEE-CS), such a separation is crucial to define clear expectations for members' conduct, ensuring they are aware of their ethical obligations. These obligations, such as approving safe and effective software, are directly tied to broader moral discussions and political debates, and must be concretely addressable within the context of the profession.