noun
- Plural of deontology; ethical theories that emphasize duties, rules, and obligations rather than consequences or outcomes.
Usage: philosophy; formal
Examples
- Different deontologies prioritize different moral duties and principles.
- Kant's deontologies focus on the categorical imperative as the foundation of morality.
- Many religious ethical systems are forms of deontologies that emphasize obedience to divine commands.
- Deontologies contrast with consequentialist approaches that judge actions by their results.
- Students studying ethics often compare deontologies with virtue ethics and utilitarianism.