Deontological

7 Pages 1820 Words

allow any other rational being to act on the same reasoning you used to justify your action?) (p. 49.)
Act as to treat the capacity for rationality, whether in thine own person or in that of any other, in every case as an end withal, never as a means only. (i.e. Never treat a rational being as a mere means to an end.) (p. 62.)



Benefits - 1. Right and wrong actions are easily determined by considering one's duties. In some cases, these are explicitly spelled out (i.e. religion). However, the use of judgement is usually necessary to determine which duties apply and how. 2. Unlike utilitarianism, the end does not justify the means. Deontological theories provide a sound basis for inalienable rights and inherent value. 3. Since duties do not change, there is a greater sense of security/predictability in the accepted behavior of others. Right and wrong don’t vary with the consequences, although there may be a various according to circumstances (i.e. in the case of conflicting duties). 4. Good motives are valued, even if the outcome wasn’t what you expected..
Problems - 1. There is no agreement on a single standard for morality. 2. Ignoring consequences can cause pain and suffering. 3. The imposition of a specific moral belief system on others has been a cause of significant harm throughout history. Some deontological theories are not equipped...