Deontological Ethics is a term used to describe an ethical framework that emphasizes the moral rules and principles that govern actions, rather than the consequences of those actions. The spelling of this term is phonetically transcribed as /diːɒntəlɒdʒɪk(ə)l ˈɛθɪks/. The stress is on the second syllable, with a long "ee" sound in "Deontological" and a short "a" sound in "ethics." This term derives from the Greek word "deon," meaning "duty," and "logos," meaning "study" or "word." Therefore, Deontological Ethics translates to "the study of duty."
Deontological ethics is a philosophical theory that focuses on moral duties and obligations, rather than solely on the consequences of actions. Derived from the Greek term "deon," meaning duty, and "logos," referring to logic or reason, deontological ethics emphasizes the inherent moral principles that guide our actions, independent of their outcomes.
In deontological ethics, the rightness or wrongness of an action is determined by adhering to certain moral rules or duties. These rules are considered absolute and unchanging, providing a universal framework for moral decision-making. Deontological ethics suggests that individuals have a duty to act in accordance with moral rules because it is their moral obligation to do so, regardless of the potential consequences.
Immanuel Kant, an influential philosopher, proposed one of the most notable theories within deontological ethics. According to Kant's moral philosophy, known as the categorical imperative, individuals should act only according to principles that they would wish to see universally followed. In other words, moral decisions should be made based on principles that everyone should follow, regardless of personal desires or preferences.
Deontological ethics often contrasts with consequentialist theories, such as utilitarianism, which focus on the outcomes or consequences of actions. While deontological ethics prioritizes duty, consequentialist theories prioritize the maximization of overall happiness or well-being.
Overall, deontological ethics provides a framework for moral decision-making based on obligations and duties, emphasizing the importance of following moral rules, regardless of the outcomes that may result from one's actions.
The word "deontological" originates from the Greek words "deon" meaning "duty" and "logos" meaning "science" or "study". Combining these elements, the term "deontological" can be understood as the study or science of duty. In the context of ethics, it refers to an ethical theory or framework that focuses on the inherent moral obligations and duties of individuals rather than the consequences of their actions. Thus, "deontological ethics" refers to the branch of ethics that examines ethical systems based on duties and obligations.