Deontology Flashcards
What is deontology? /4
the idea that some things are just inherently wrong and that the ends do not justify the means
referred to as non-consequentialist approach to morality (but not entirely accurate)
deon = greek for duty
believe that people live in a world of moral rules to be followed without exception
What are the basic rules of deontology? /4
it is wrong to kill innocent people
it is wrong to steal
it is wrong to tell lies
it is right to keep promises
Who is Immanuel Kant? /4
German enlightenment philosopher
rejected divine command theory
argued people did not need an external authority to figure out right/wrong
people need to figure out their decisions for themselves
What is divine command theory?
idea that morality simply required adherence to the tenets of the church
What is susceptible of deontology? /3
The ax problem
although the rules look reasonable, people do struggle to understand the logic of deontology
ex. difficulty accepting the idea of lying to an murderer
What is categorical imperative? /2
process that deontologists use to formulate their universal rules
only has two complementary rules
What are the rules of categorical imperative? /2
moral rules must be universalisable
do unto others how you would have them do unto you
What does it mean when moral rules must be universalisable?
the rule should be able to apply to everyone equally without exception or logical contradiction
What does it mean when a rule must do unto others how you would have them do unto you? /2
treat others how you want to be treated
no hypocrisy
What are the strengths of deontology? 4(5)
emphasizes the value of every individual or
minority can not be sacrificed to placate the majority
consistent with the idea that some acts are inherently wrong
provides certainty
consistent with the idea that intention matters
What are the weaknesses of deontology? /3
absolutist
no way to negotiate conflicting duties
allows acts that make the world a worse place (ex. ax problem)
