Final answer:
A code of ethics is a document that defines the acceptable behaviors for members of a professional or social group, guiding their conduct to align with legal, societal, and moral standards.
Step-by-step explanation:
A document that outlines a set of acceptable behaviors for a professional or social group is called a code of ethics. These documents serve to guide the conduct of individuals within various organizations, including businesses, professional associations, and academic disciplines. For instance, the IEEE-CS provides a code of ethics specifically for software engineers, outlining their professional and ethical obligations to ensure their work does not harm the environment or infringe upon the quality of human life.
Organizations like the American Sociological Association also establish codes of ethics to promote ethically responsible scholarship. These codes are not limited to standards of research but extend to the very behaviors and practices expected of members within a group. In essence, a code of ethics details the laws, values, and cultural rules that should govern a member's actions within a society or profession.
By adhering to these codes, professionals commit to maintaining a standard that reflects not only legal compliance but also the societal and moral values embraced by their communities. Such a code becomes a foundational element for corporate responsibility, fostering trust and guiding decision-making within the respective fields.