deontologi

Deontology, also known as deontologie in Dutch and in some other languages, is a family of normative ethical theories that assess the morality of actions by their conformity to rules, duties, or principles rather than by their consequences. Moral duties are seen as binding regardless of outcomes.

Immanuel Kant is the central figure in many deontological accounts. He argued that moral law is grounded in rationality and autonomy, and formulated the categorical imperative: act only according to maxims you could will to become universal laws, and treat humanity as an end in itself, never merely as a means.

Other deontologists, such as W. D. Ross, argued for moral pluralism: there are multiple prima facie duties (e.g., fidelity, justice, beneficence, gratitude) that can conflict, and moral judgment requires weighing them in context when such conflicts arise.

Deontology contrasts with consequentialist theories (such as utilitarianism) that judge actions by outcomes. In deontology, adherence to duty takes priority even if it yields less favorable results; many deontologists also recognize imperfect duties and contextual constraints that shape how duties are applied.

Criticisms include perceived rigidity and the problem of conflicting duties, as well as cases where following a duty seems to produce bad results. Proponents respond that rules protect rights, safeguard autonomy, and provide clear moral guidance in complex situations.

In practice, deontological reasoning influences law, professional codes, and medical ethics, emphasizing duties such as truth-telling, promise-keeping, and treating people as ends rather than mere means.