What are the similarities and differences of the Consequentialist theories(ends based theory) and the Deontological theories(Rules based theory).
http://pirate.shu.edu/~mckenndo/ethics-deontology-consequentialism.htm
Consequentialist theories, also known as ends-based theories, and deontological theories, also known as rules-based theories, are two different ethical frameworks used to evaluate the morality of actions. Here are the similarities and differences between the two:
Similarities:
1. Importance of moral considerations: Both consequentialism and deontology are concerned with ethics and the moral implications of actions.
2. Ethical decision-making: Both theories provide a systematic approach to making ethical decisions by providing principles to evaluate moral situations.
3. Universal application: Both consequentialism and deontology attempt to provide ethical principles that can be applicable universally, irrespective of personal or cultural bias.
Differences:
1. Focus:
- Consequentialism: It is focused on the consequences or outcomes of actions. The moral worth of an action is determined by the overall net result of its consequences.
- Deontology: It is focused on the adherence to a set of ethical rules, principles, or duties. The moral worth of an action is determined by whether it adheres to these rules, regardless of the consequences.
2. Evaluation of actions:
- Consequentialism: Actions are evaluated based on the ends they achieve. The moral rightness or wrongness of an action is determined by the favorable or unfavorable consequences it produces.
- Deontology: Actions are evaluated based on the adherence to a set of ethical rules or duties. The moral rightness or wrongness of an action depends on whether it follows these rules, irrespective of the consequences.
3. Moral considerations:
- Consequentialism: Consequentialists primarily focus on maximizing the overall well-being, happiness, or utility for the majority of people affected by an action.
- Deontology: Deontologists emphasize the importance of duties, obligations, and moral principles regardless of the overall consequences.
4. Flexibility:
- Consequentialism: Consequentialist theories allow for flexible decision-making, as the moral value of an action is contingent on the specific circumstances and predicted outcomes.
- Deontology: Deontological theories provide a more rigid framework, where moral duties are usually considered absolute and non-negotiable, regardless of situational factors.
It is important to note that these are general descriptions, and various sub-theories and variations exist within consequentialism and deontology, adding further complexity to their similarities and differences.