What are the similarities and differences of the Consequentialist theories(ends based theory) and the Deontological theories(Rules based theory).
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http://pirate.shu.edu/~mckenndo/ethics-deontology-consequentialism.htm
To identify the similarities and differences between Consequentialist theories (ends-based theory) and Deontological theories (rules-based theory), we need to examine the key principles of each.
Consequentialist Theories:
1. Focus on the consequences: Consequentialist theories evaluate the moral rightness or wrongness of an action based on its outcomes or consequences.
2. Utilitarianism: One prominent form of consequentialism is utilitarianism, which holds that the morally right action is the one that maximizes overall happiness or utility for the greatest number of people.
3. Relativistic Moral Evaluation: Consequentialist theories acknowledge that moral evaluations can vary depending on the particular situation or context.
Deontological Theories:
1. Focus on duties and rules: Deontological theories emphasize the importance of following moral duties and rules regardless of the consequences.
2. Moral obligations and rights: These theories assert that certain actions are inherently right or wrong, regardless of their outcomes. Actions are judged based on their conformity to moral rules and principles.
3. Absolute Moral Evaluation: Deontological theories propose that moral judgments are more objective and should be applicable universally, irrespective of changing circumstances.
Now, let's explore the similarities and differences between these two theories:
Similarities:
1. Ethical framework: Both consequentialist and deontological theories provide moral frameworks for evaluating the rightness or wrongness of actions.
2. Concern for moral reasoning: Both theories intend to guide individuals in making ethical decisions by providing systematic approaches to moral reasoning.
Differences:
1. Focus: Consequentialist theories prioritize outcomes and emphasize the consequences of an action, while deontological theories prioritize the adherence to rules and duties, regardless of the outcomes.
2. Moral evaluation: Consequentialist theories evaluate the morality of an action based on its consequences, whereas deontological theories evaluate the morality of an action based on its adherence to moral rules and principles.
3. Relativism vs. absolutism: Consequentialist theories allow for relativism, as moral evaluations can vary depending on the situation, while deontological theories lean towards absolutism, asserting that moral judgments apply universally.
4. End-oriented vs. rule-oriented: Consequentialist theories focus on achieving desirable ends or outcomes, whereas deontological theories prioritize acting in accordance with prescribed rules and duties.
To sum up, the primary distinction between consequentialist theories and deontological theories lies in their focus on consequences versus rules and duties as the basis for evaluating moral actions. While consequentialism emphasizes the outcomes, deontological theories prioritize moral obligations and rights.