What is defined as a law or rule prescribed by an authority to regulate conduct?

The definition of a law or rule prescribed by an authority to regulate conduct aligns with the term "regulation." Regulations are established by governmental agencies and are designed to manage specific activities in various sectors, ensuring that standards are met and public welfare is protected. They typically carry the force of law, meaning that they must be followed and can result in penalties if violated.

Policies, while important, refer more broadly to principles or plans of action adopted by organizations or governments to guide decision-making rather than specific laws that enforce conduct. Statutes are laws that have been enacted by a legislature, often serving as the broader framework within which regulations operate. Guidelines are generally recommendations or best practices rather than binding rules, offering a more flexible approach to compliance. Therefore, the term that most accurately represents a binding rule established by an authority is "regulation."