What area of philosophy examines human conduct and values?

Ethics is the area of philosophy that specifically focuses on human conduct and the principles that govern what is considered right and wrong behavior. It delves into questions about how individuals ought to act, the moral implications of their choices, and the underlying values that guide those decisions. Philosophy teachers and practitioners use ethics to explore topics such as virtue, justice, and the good life, enabling individuals to reflect on their own moral beliefs and behaviors.

Metaphysics, while a crucial branch of philosophy, is concerned with the nature of reality, existence, and the fundamental nature of the universe, rather than directly addressing human conduct and moral values. Aesthetics relates to the nature of beauty, art, and taste, focusing more on experiences and interpretations rather than moral or ethical conduct. Epistemology investigates the nature of knowledge, belief, and justification, emphasizing how we know what we know rather than the ethical implications of human actions. Thus, ethics stands out as the appropriate area of philosophy examining conduct and values.