Which of the following can be defined as the study of the right or wrong behavior and is philosophical in effect as to what ought to be done?

The correct answer, which is ethics, is defined as the branch of philosophy that deals with what is considered right or wrong behavior. Ethics explores moral values, principles, and dilemmas, guiding individuals on how they ought to act in various situations. It involves critical thinking about moral issues and provides frameworks to evaluate actions based on concepts of good and bad, right and wrong.

Morality, while closely connected to ethics, typically refers to the specific set of beliefs and values held by individuals or societies about what is right and wrong, rather than the broad study of those concepts. Justice relates to fairness and the distribution of rewards and punishments but does not encompass the study of moral philosophy in the same way ethics does. Religion often includes moral guidelines but is based on faith and spiritual beliefs rather than the philosophical inquiry that defines ethics. Therefore, ethics is the appropriate choice as it specifically addresses the philosophical aspects of right and wrong behavior.