Bioethics - Kant's Deontology

Deontological Ethics

A duty-based ethical theory that judges actions by moral rules and intentions rather than consequences.

Deontology

From the Greek deon (duty) and logos (study); the study of moral duties and obligations.

Deontological Ethics Philosopher

Immanuel Kant (1724–1804).

Kants Deontology vs Utilitarianism

Kant emphasizes duties, intentions, and universal moral laws; utilitarianism emphasizes consequences and maximizing happiness.

Consequences should not determine morality

Consequences are unpredictable and beyond our control, while we can control our motives and intentions.

Kants moral Philosophy basic principle

Act according to universal moral laws solely from a sense of duty.

Kants basic assumptions about human beings

Humans possess good will and are essentially rational beings capable of recognizing moral laws.

Good will

The only thing Kant considers good without qualification. It has moral worth regardless of its consequences, unlike wealth, intelligence, or happiness, which can be used badly.

Reason and morality

Reason allows humans to recognize and establish objective, universally valid moral laws.

Moral worth of actions

Performing it from duty, because it is morally right, rather than from self-interest or personal feelings.

Motives for an action according to Kant

Self-interest, sympathy or inclination, and a sense of duty.

Acting in accordance with duty, and acting from duty

Acting in accordance with duty means doing the right thing; acting from duty means doing it specifically because it is morally required.

Kants merchant example

A merchant who charges fairly to protect his reputation acts in accordance with duty, but not from duty, because his motive is self-interest.

Categorical Imperative

An unconditional moral command that applies universally, regardless of personal desires or consequences.

Categorical vs Hypothetical Imperatie

A categorical imperative applies unconditionally; a hypothetical imperative applies only if someone wants to achieve a particular goal.

Maxim

A personal principle or rule that guides an individual's actions.

First formulation

Universal law, Act only according to maxims you could consistently will to become universal laws.

Second formulation

End in Itself, Always treat humanity, in yourself and others, as an end and never merely as a means.

Third formulation

Autonomy, Rational individuals are autonomous lawmakers who give themselves the universal moral laws they obey.

An end vs a means

Respecting their dignity and rational freedom rather than using them solely to achieve your own goals.

Relationship of the three formulations

They express the same fundamental moral law through universality, respect for persons, and rational autonomy.

Principle of Autonomy

Everyone has the right to self-determination and to make their own decisions.

Principles of Beneficence and Non-Malfeasance

Beneficence means maximizing good; non-malfeasance means minimizing harm.

Principle of Fidelity

The obligation to provide the greatest care possible.

Advantages of Kant’s Deontology

Universal moral rules, respect for autonomy and human dignity, rationality, objectivity, equality, justice, and a foundation for human rights.

Practical Criticism of Kant’s Deontology

It can be inflexible, ignore serious consequences, forbid lying even to prevent harm, and struggle when duties conflict.

Philosophical Critisim of Kant’s Theory

Questions about objective moral laws, whether people act purely from duty, limits of human rationality, and its human-centred treatment of animals.