Ethos

Ethos, derived from the Greek word meaning 'character,' refers to the fundamental character or spirit of a culture, era, or community. It encompasses the beliefs, values, attitudes, and moral principles that shape the identity and behavior of a group. It's the underlying sentiment that defines the distinguishing character, spirit, and guiding beliefs of an organization, society, or individual. This includes established customs, habits, and the general tone of its societal structure, political system or business conduct. Often, it is the moral or ethical aspect which influences a group's overall direction, style, and decision-making processes. The ethos is often implicit and conveyed through the actions and traditions of a group rather than explicitly stated.

Ethos meaning with examples

• The company's ethos of innovation fostered a culture where employees were encouraged to experiment and take calculated risks. This approach propelled them to be a leading force, setting a new standard for development and progress within the industry over many years.
• The environmental movement champions an ethos of sustainability, encouraging individuals to adopt eco-friendly practices. Promoting a shift towards a greater sense of responsibility towards the planet, the global goal is one which looks to protect future generations by conserving natural resources.
• The school promoted a strong ethos of academic excellence and social responsibility, which resulted in a high level of student achievement and a deep sense of community among both pupils and staff, leading to a supportive atmosphere.
• In the aftermath of the crisis, the community rallied around a new ethos of mutual support and resilience. This included providing immediate assistance and developing long-term support structures that would help those impacted to rebuild their lives.