Deontology
Deontology
Deontology (pronounced: dee-on-TOL-uh-jee) is a branch of ethics that studies the moral obligation and duty of individuals. The term is derived from the Greek words 'deon' meaning duty and 'logos' meaning study.
Etymology
The term 'Deontology' is derived from the Greek words 'deon' which means 'duty' and 'logos' which means 'study'. Thus, it literally translates to 'the study of duty'.
Definition
Deontology is a theory of ethics that determines the morality of an action based on its adherence to rules. It is often contrasted with consequentialism, which bases the morality of an action on its outcome, and virtue ethics, which focuses on the character of the moral agent rather than the rules or consequences of the action.
Principles
Deontology is often associated with philosopher Immanuel Kant, who proposed that moral obligations are 'categorical imperatives' that apply universally, regardless of the consequences. This means that certain actions are considered morally right or wrong, regardless of their outcome.
Related Terms
- Categorical Imperative: A concept in deontology that proposes that moral obligations apply universally, regardless of the consequences.
- Consequentialism: A theory of ethics that bases the morality of an action on its outcome.
- Virtue Ethics: A branch of ethics that focuses on the character of the moral agent rather than the rules or consequences of the action.
- Immanuel Kant: A philosopher often associated with deontology.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Deontology
- Wikipedia's article - Deontology
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