What is the difference between a teleological and deontological ethics theory?

A teleological ethical theory is derived from the word 'telos' which is Greek for 'end'. It is an action based on the consequence of it and whether the outcome is good or bad. Examples of an teleological ethical theory are situation ethics by Fletcher, or Utilitarianism by Bentham. Whereas deontological ethics derives from the Greek word 'deon' which means 'obligation' or 'duty'. Here, an action is defined moral or not depending if the action itself is right or wrong under a series of rules, rather than based on the consequence of an action. For example, Kantian Ethics is a deontological theory.

IG
Answered by Izzy G. Religious Studies tutor

11107 Views

See similar Religious Studies A Level tutors

Related Religious Studies A Level answers

All answers ▸

To what extent are a posteriori arguments for the existence of God more persuasive than a priori arguments?


What do the two Genesis stories tell us about creation and about how we should read the Bible?


What does Plato's Cave analogy in the 'Republic' tell us about his understanding of reality?


Assess the view that conscience is not the voice of God, but is learned (35)


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning