Deontological

Adjective

Definition: Pertaining to deontological ethics or ethical theories that focus on duties and rules.

Synonyms: Rule-based, Duty-based

Antonyms: Consequentialist, Utilitarian

Examples:

The deontological approach asserts that certain actions are inherently right or wrong, regardless of the consequences.
Kantian ethics is a well-known deontological ethical theory.

Mnemonics:

Deontological emphasizes duties and rules, like "Do's and Don'ts".

Etymology:

Origin:

The term "deontology" was coined by Jeremy Bentham in the 19th century using the Greek words "deon" (duty) and "logos" (science or study).

Historical Usage:

Deontological ethics has been a topic of philosophical debate since ancient times, but the term itself was popularized in the 19th century by Bentham and subsequently further developed by philosophers such as Immanuel Kant.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Deontological dilemma"

Explanation:

A situation where one's moral duties or rules conflict, making it challenging to determine the right course of action.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Equating deontological ethics with moral absolutism.

Explanation:

While deontological ethics focuses on duties and rules, it does not necessarily mean that the moral evaluation of an action is always absolute or unchanging. Different deontological theories and philosophers have varying perspectives on the flexibility or contextual application of moral rules.