Final answer:
Ethical behavior is usually seen as superior to merely abiding by the law because it encompasses a broader understanding of moral guidelines. Ethics is a philosophical field that examines morality and ethical reasoning, going beyond societal norms to explore deeper principles and theories behind what is considered 'right' or 'ethical'.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement "Ethical behavior is generally considered to be on a higher plane than legal behavior" can be considered true. Ethical behavior involves a set of moral principles or values guiding an individual's actions, going beyond mere legal compliance. Legal behavior is conformance to the laws of a society, which may not necessarily cover all ethical concerns. For example, it might be legal to do something that is considered by many to be unethical, such as certain manipulative business practices.
Metaethics is a branch of ethics that explores the nature, scope, and meaning of moral judgment, seeking to understand ethical concepts and the foundations of ethical theories. It delves deeper than the specific normative ethical guidelines, such as consequentialism or care ethics, which guide actual behavior.
Morality, while related to ethics, is often defined by societal norms and can be influenced by a multitude of factors, such as culture, religion, or personal beliefs. Morality and ethics, while interrelated, are not synonymous. Morality often represents the codes of conduct accepted by an individual or a social group, whereas ethics is the systematic philosophical study of morals and moral reasoning.