The ideal behavior is based on specific values and principles, which define what is right, good, and proper. These principles will not always dictate a single ethically acceptable course of action, of course. But the prescriptive approach to ethics does provide a structure for evaluating and resolving competing ethical claims. In modern times morals tend to be associated with ever narrower and more personal concept of values, especially concerning matters of religion, sex, drinking, gambling, and the like. Moral Duty Moral duty refers to the obligation to act or refrain from acting according to moral principles.
Moral duties establish the minimal standards of ethical conduct.
Thus, the failure to perform a moral duty properly evokes the moral judgment that the conduct is wrong, unethical or improper. There are both affirmative and negative dimensions to moral duties. Moral Virtue Moral virtue goes beyond moral duty. Moral virtues are aspirational rather than mandatory. Values Values are core beliefs or desires that guide or motivate attitudes and actions.