Basic principles of Deontology

Concepts of agency and autonomy

Evaluating actions using universalizabiliy

Presented by Group 2
 Introduction
A. Definition of Deontology

B. Historical Background
 Introduction to
Deontology

Deontology Background

Deontology is an ethical theory that Deontology was first proposed by the

emphasizes the importance of following German philosopher immanuel Kant in the
moral rules and duties. 18th Century.
 Basic principles of
Deontology
Categorical Imperative Duty and Responsibility

According to Kant, the categorical imperative

Deontology emphasizes that individuals have
is the fundamental principle of morality,
a moral duty to follow certain rules and that
which states that actions should be based on
they are responsible for their actions.
moral rules that can be universally applied.

Universalization Respect for Persons

Deontology requires that moral rules be Deontological ethics stresses the importance
applicable to everyone, regardless of personal of respecting individuals and treating them as
circumstances or individual preferences. ends in themselves, rather than as means to
an end.
 Application of concept of agency to one's
moral experiences

Agency refers to the capacity of individuals to act and make choices

independently, with the understanding that their actions have consequences.
in the context of moral experiences, agency plays an important role in
determining how individuals perceive and respond to morally relevant
situations.
 Application of concept of agency to one's
moral experiences

When individuals act with a sense of agency in moral situations, they take
responsibility for their actions and the consequences that follow. They feel
empowered to make choices that align with their personal values and
principles, and are more likely to feel a sense of satisfaction and fulfillment
as a result.
 Application of concept of agency to one's
moral experiences

On the other hand, when individuals lack a sense of agency in moral

situations, they may feel powerless or helpless to influence the outcomes of
their actions. This can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, or resentment, as they
may perceive themselves as victims of circumstances beyond their control.
 Universalizability Test

The universalizability test is a moral principle that proposes that an action is

morally acceptable if and only if its maxim, or principle of action, can be
consistently and rationally universalized without contradiction. In other
words, if the maxim of an action can be applied to all individuals in all
similar situations without resulting in a logical contradiction, then it is
morally permissible.
 Universalizability Test

To illustrate the application of the universalizability test, let us consider the

following action: lying to a friend in order to avoid hurting their feelings.

The maxim of this action could be stated as: "It is permissible to lie a friend
if it is done to avoid hurting their feelings."
 Universalizability Test

To evaluate the this action using the universalizability test, we must ask
ourselves whether this maxim can be consistently and rationally
universalized without contradiction. In other words, can we imagine a world
in which everyone acted according to this maxim, and would such a world
be logically consistent?
 Conclusion

• Summary of Principles:
Deontology emphasizes the importance of following moral rules and duties,
treating individuals with respect, and promoting justice and fairness.
• Importance of Deontology:
Ethics: Deontology is an important ethical theory that provides a foundation
for moral decision-making and guides individuals in leading a moral life.
 Conclusion

• Concept of Agency:
The concept of agency is an important factor in shaping one's moral
experiences. By taking ownership of their moral beliefs and acting in
accordance with them, individuals can feel a greater sense of control over
their lives and a greater sense of satisfaction and fulfillment.
 Conclusion

• Universalizability test:
The universalizability test provides a useful tool for evaluating the moral
permissibility of actions by examining whether the maxim of the action can
be consistently and rationally universalized without contradiction. By
applying this principle, we can make more informed and ethical decisions in
our daily lives