Ethics of Deontology: Awareness, Research and Resources
The Ethics of Deontology Research
The Ethics of Deontology
"Deontology is a moral philosophy that focuses on the rightness or wrongness of actions themselves, rather than the consequences they produce. It's often associated with principles like duty, rules, and moral obligations. The ethics of deontology revolve around several key principles:
Duty and Obligation: Deontological ethics emphasizes the importance of following moral rules and fulfilling one's duties. This means that certain actions are inherently right or wrong, regardless of their outcomes.
Universalizability: Actions are judged based on whether they can be universally applied. For example, lying is considered wrong because if everyone lied all the time, trust would collapse.
Intentions Matter: Deontologists argue that the motives behind actions are crucial. A morally right action must be done for the right reasons, such as fulfilling a duty or following a moral principle.
Respect for Persons: Deontology often emphasizes the importance of treating individuals as ends in themselves, not merely as means to an end. This ties into concepts of human dignity and rights.
Absolute Principles: Some deontologists believe in absolute moral rules that must never be violated under any circumstances (e.g., do not kill innocent people).
Critics of deontology argue that it can be rigid and fail to account for the complexity of real-world situations. For instance, adhering strictly to rules may lead to morally questionable outcomes in certain cases. However, proponents argue that deontology provides a clear framework for moral decision-making and emphasizes principles that protect individual rights and uphold justice." (ChatGPT 2024)
"Deontological ethics, often associated with the philosopher Immanuel Kant, is an ethical theory that emphasizes the importance of duty and rules in determining moral actions. The term “deontology” comes from the Greek words “deon,” meaning duty, and “logos,” meaning science or study 1.- Duty-Based Morality: Actions are considered morally right if they adhere to a set of rules or duties, regardless of the consequences 1.
- Categorical Imperative: Kant’s famous principle states that one should act only according to maxims that can be universally applied. For example, one should not lie because if everyone lied, trust would be impossible 1.
- Intrinsic Value of Actions: Deontological ethics holds that certain actions are inherently right or wrong, independent of their outcomes 2.
- Clarity and Consistency: Provides clear guidelines for ethical behavior, making it easier to determine what is right or wrong 2.
- Respect for Individuals: Emphasizes treating individuals as ends in themselves, not merely as means to an end 1.
- Rigidity: Can lead to morally questionable outcomes if rules are followed without considering the consequences. For example, telling the truth in a situation where a lie could save a life2.
- Conflict of Duties: Situations may arise where duties conflict, making it difficult to determine the right course of action 3.
Deontological ethics is a significant and influential approach in moral philosophy, offering a framework that prioritizes duty and principles over outcomes." (Microsoft Copilot)
Deontology and Utilitarianism in Real Life: A Set of Moral Dilemmas Based on Historic Events Sage Journals
Deontology vs. Utilitarianism : Understanding the Basis for the Moral Theories in Medicine International Journal of Medicine and Health Development
Deontologism Definition, History & Examples Study
Ethics and Deontology in Business Eastern New Mexico University
Professional Responsibility: A Deontological Case-Study Approach Iñaki Xavier Larrauri Pertierra, The Journal of Catholic Social Thought and Secular Ethics PDF Download
Three General Theories of Ethics and the Integrative Role of Integrity Theory ResearchGate
Understanding Ethical Systems: Deontology The Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission