deontology

American  

[dee-on-tol-uh-jee] / ˌdi ɒnˈtɒl ə dʒi /

noun

1. ethics, especially that branch dealing with duty, moral obligation, and right action.

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deontology British  

/ ˌdiːɒnˈtɒlədʒɪ /

noun

1. the branch of ethics dealing with duty, moral obligation, and moral commitment

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Other Word Forms

• deontologist
  noun
• deontological
  adjective

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Etymology

Origin of deontology

First recorded in 1820–30; from Greek deont- (stem of déon “binding,” neuter present participle of deîn “to bind, tie, fetter”) + -o- ( def. ) + -logy

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

deontology

In contrast to classic utilitarianism and deontology, pluralism recognizes a plurality of intrinsic values and moral rules.

From Textbooks ● Jun. 15, 2022

Compare and contrast the Kantian and pluralist interpretation of deontology.

From Textbooks ● Jun. 15, 2022

May, who teaches at Clemson, starred in a series of short videos explaining concepts like existentialism, utilitarianism, and deontology to the show’s viewers.

From Slate ● Feb. 3, 2020

In contrast to consequentialism or duty-based deontology, virtue ethics emphasizes virtues or moral excellence.

From Slate ● Apr. 15, 2019

Accordingly, general deontology, in that part which brings not external, but internal, freedom under laws is the doctrine of virtue.

From The Metaphysical Elements of Ethics by Thomas Kingsmill Abbott

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