Many laws have the origins in the ethical beliefs of a society.  For instance, most people believe that it is wrong to steal or to cause physical harm to others.  When many people in a community, state, or nation agree on ethical principles, it is often made into law.

But while laws and ethical standards may be similar, they are not the same.  For example, it is illegal to jaywalk or cross the street in a reckless and irresponsible way, but there is nothing unethical about this behaviour.  Similarly, it is not illegal, but it is unethical, to take credit for work that someone else has done.  Sometimes laws are not ethical and sometimes ethical behaviour is against the law.

Many laws are made with the intent to force people to act ethically.