Which statement about ethical behavior in business is true?

Ethical guidelines play a crucial role in helping individuals and organizations navigate the often complex and ambiguous situations they face in business. These guidelines provide a framework for making decisions that align with moral values, professional standards, and societal expectations. By following ethical guidelines, businesses can evaluate scenarios where the right course of action may not be immediately clear, ultimately leading to choices that reflect integrity and responsibility.

In contrast, the other statements present limitations or misinterpretations of ethical behavior. While personal beliefs can influence actions, they may not universally align with ethical practices, as personal beliefs can vary widely and lead to subjective decision-making. The notion that only legal actions are ethical overlooks the important distinction between legality and morality; there are legal practices that may not be ethical, and vice versa. Lastly, prioritizing profit above all else can lead to unethical behavior and decisions that disregard the welfare of employees, customers, and the environment. Thus, focusing solely on profit does not align with the principles of ethical conduct in business.