Deontology and Kantian Ethics

Deontology (from the Greek deon, meaning duty) is the family of theories holding that some actions are right or wrong in themselves, regardless of their consequences. Where consequentialism looks forward to outcomes, deontology emphasizes duties, rules, and rights that constrain what we may do even in pursuit of good ends. The most systematic deontological theory is that of Immanuel Kant.

The good will and duty

Kant opens the Groundwork of the Metaphysics of Morals with a striking claim: the only thing good without qualification is a good will. Intelligence, courage, wealth, and even happiness can be used for evil; what makes them good is the good will that directs them. A good will is good not because of what it accomplishes but because of its inner quality—its commitment to doing the rig