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Certainly! Deontological Ethics, derived from the Greek word “deon” meaning duty, is a normative ethical theory that emphasizes the importance of adhering to moral rules or duties. Here are some key points:

1. Duty Over Consequences: Unlike consequentialism, deontological ethics holds that certain actions are inherently right or wrong, regardless of their outcomes. For example, lying is considered wrong even if it results in a positive outcome.

2. Kant’s Categorical Imperative: Immanuel Kant, a central figure in deontological ethics, proposed the Categorical Imperative as a universal moral law. One formulation of it is: “Act only according to that maxim whereby you can at the same time will that it should become a universal law.” This means you should only act in ways that you would want everyone to act in similar situations.

3. Moral Absolutism: Deontological ethics often involves moral absolutism, the belief that certain actions are absolutely right or wrong. For instance, killing is always wrong, even if it could save lives.

4. Intentions Matter: The morality of an action is judged based on the intention behind it. If you act out of a sense of duty and follow moral rules, your action is considered morally right, even if it leads to negative consequences.

5. Criticisms: Critics argue that deontological ethics can be rigid and may lead to morally questionable outcomes when following rules leads to harm. For example, refusing to lie to protect someone could result in their harm.

In summary, deontological ethics provides a clear, rule-based framework for moral decision-making, prioritizing duty and intention over consequences.

Normative ethical theories provide frameworks for determining what actions are morally right or wrong. The main types are:

1. Deontological Ethics: Focuses on duty and rules. Actions are judged based on their adherence to these duties, regardless of consequences (e.g., Kant’s Categorical Imperative).

2. Consequentialism: Judges actions by their outcomes. The most well-known form is Utilitarianism, which seeks the greatest good for the greatest number.

3. Virtue Ethics: Emphasizes character and virtues rather than rules or outcomes. It asks what a virtuous person would do in a given situation (e.g., Aristotle’s emphasis on virtues like courage and wisdom).

4. Rights-Based Ethics: Centers on the rights of individuals. Actions are right if they respect and protect these rights (e.g., human rights theories).

Each theory offers a different lens for evaluating moral decisions.