Deontological ethics, particularly as articulated by Immanuel Kant, centers on the idea that morality is grounded in duty and adherence to universal moral laws, rather than consequences. Here are some key points to deepen your understanding:

1. Categorical Imperative: Kant’s central principle, the Categorical Imperative, demands that one act only according to maxims that can be universally applied. For example, lying is inherently wrong because if everyone lied, trust and communication would collapse.

2. Moral Absolutes: Deontology often involves moral absolutes—actions that are always right or wrong, regardless of context. This contrasts with consequentialism, which evaluates actions based on outcomes.

3. Intentions Matter: Deontological ethics places significant weight on the intentions behind actions. A morally good action is one performed out of a sense of duty, not for personal gain or favorable outcomes.

4. Rights and Justice: By prioritizing duties, deontology protects individual rights and ensures justice. For instance, it forbids using individuals merely as means to an end, upholding their inherent dignity.

5. Criticisms: Critics argue that deontology can be rigid and impractical, as it may require actions that lead to negative outcomes (e.g., refusing to lie even to save a life). It also struggles with conflicting duties, such as when two moral principles clash.

6. Contrast with Utilitarianism: Unlike utilitarianism, which seeks the greatest good for the greatest number, deontology focuses on the morality of actions themselves, regardless of their consequences.

In summary, deontological ethics provides a robust framework for moral decision-making by emphasizing duty, universal principles, and the intrinsic value of actions, though it is not without its challenges and criticisms.