introduction
The term deontology is etymologically rooted in the Greek lexemes for duty (deon) and the science or study of (logos). Within the realm of contemporary ethical philosophy, deontology represents a category of normative theories that delineate which actions are morally obligatory, prohibited, or allowable. To elaborate, deontology is situated within the framework of moral theories that inform and evaluate our decisions regarding our obligations (deontic theories), as opposed to those that direct and appraise the nature of our character and virtues (aretaic [virtue] theories). Furthermore, within the spectrum of moral theories that evaluate our decision-making, proponents of deontological ethics—individuals who adhere to deontological principles of morality—are positioned in stark contrast to advocates of consequentialist ethics.
The term deontology is etymologically rooted in the Greek lexemes for duty (deon) and the science or study of (logos). Within the realm of contemporary ethical philosophy, deontology represents a category of normative theories that delineate which actions are morally obligatory, prohibited, or allowable. To elaborate, deontology is situated within the framework of moral theories that inform and evaluate our decisions regarding our obligations (deontic theories), as opposed to those that direct and appraise the nature of our character and virtues (aretaic [virtue] theories). Furthermore, within the spectrum of moral theories that evaluate our decision-making, proponents of deontological ethics—individuals who adhere to deontological principles of morality—are positioned in stark contrast to advocates of consequentialist ethics.