Ethical Theory And Principles

Question 1

Three main ethical systems

Answer 1

Teleological
Deontological
Virtue based

Question 2

Teleological systems

Answer 2

Teleological systems focus on consequences (you’ll also see this referred to as consequentialism) . The emphasis here is on the outcome of a decision or and action. Utilitarianism is an example of this.

Question 3

Deontological systems

Answer 3

Deontological systems are focused on actions themselves rather than consequences. This is sometimes referred to as Kantianism (after the philosophy of Immanuel Kant). These systems suggest that there are moral rules and duties that should not be beached.

Question 4

Virtue ethics

Answer 4

Virtue ethics focuses on being rather than doing. When faced with a moral dilemma, virtue ethics encourages people to do the right thing for the right reason. The emphasis is on moral character and what the decision says about this.