Ethical Theories & Approaches

Moral reasoning deals with determining righteous of the acts. Moral theories deals with two components.

• Theory of Good

• Theory of Right

Moral Theories

• Consequentialist or teleological Theory

• Non Consequentialist or non teleological Theory

• Deontological Theory

Consequentialism Meaning

• It is theory of ethics ( teleological theory) that defines right/ wrong of an action by good/bad of its results.

• Other way end result of our actions should be good.

• End should justify means• Right actions are those that have good effect on

our health, reputation, economic & social well being, environment etc.& also on well being of others.

Features of Teleological theories

• Gives priority what is good over what is right. Good is the purpose/goal of human actions

• All actions that contribute to Good are moral actions

• Results or consequences determine the rightness or wrongness of moral actions.

Forms of Consequentialism

There are 2 forms of Consequentialism

1. Theory of Ethical Egoism

2. Utilitarianism

Bentham’s approach to Utilitarianism

Mill’s approach to Utilitarianism

Deontological Theories

There are two approaches.

1. Act Deontology

2. Rule Deontology

Difference between Deontology & Teleology Theory