In this article, you'll learn 1) the work ethic definition, 2) why work ethic is super important, 3) the work ethics that are in high demand in businesses, and 4) how to develop a strong work ethic. WORK ETHIC DEFINITION What is Work Ethic, and its Purpose? In its simplest definition, a system of moral principles is called ethics. They affect how people lead their lives, for life is an unbroken stream of decision-making and ethics are concerned with what is the right moral choice, for individuals and for society. This is also known as a moral philosophy. The etymology