Which term describes a set of moral principles governing an individual or group?

The term that describes a set of moral principles governing an individual or group is "ethics." Ethics encompasses the principles that dictate what is considered right or wrong, guiding behavior and decision-making processes. In various contexts, including public administration and government, ethics plays a crucial role in maintaining integrity, accountability, and trustworthiness in actions and choices.

In contrast, taxation refers specifically to the process by which governments impose financial charges on individuals or entities, usually to fund public services. Regulation involves creating rules or laws that govern the conduct of individuals or organizations, often to protect public interest or ensure compliance with standards. Legislation refers to the act of making or enacting laws, which may influence ethical practices but does not itself embody the moral principles that guide behavior. Hence, ethics stands out as the correct answer for representing a framework of moral principles.