Kant; the good will, duty and the categorical imperatives

Deontologists believe that morality is a matter of

duty

We have moral duties to do things

which it is right to do and moral duties not to do things which it is wrong to do.

many deontologists focus on the intention of an action

meaning that whether an action is right or wrong is judged by the agents intentions, eg, accidental killing verses murder

Most deontological theories recognise two classes of duties.

general duties we have towards anyone. These are mostly prohibitions; e.g. do not lie; do not murder. But some may be positive; e.g. help people in need.

there are duties we have because of our particular personal or social relationships. (give an example)

If you have made a promise, you have a duty to keep it. If you are a parent, you have a duty to provide for your children. And so on.

We each have duties regarding

our own actions

for example

I have a duty to keep MY promises

. I have a duty to keep my promises, but I don’t have a duty to make sure promises are kept. why?

we should each be most concerned with complying with our duties, not attempting to bring about the most good.