Deontology
Deontology evaluates conduct through duties, rights and principles rather than judging it solely by its outcomes. Different duty-based theories can disagree about which duties take priority. A deontological argument therefore needs to identify the relevant duty and explain its application; it is not simply a claim that following any existing rule makes an action ethical.
Worked example
A manager refuses to falsify a safety certificate because truthful certification is a duty owed to customers, even when falsification would help the company win a contract.
Common mistake
Equating every duty-based theory with the view that no rule can ever have an exception, or assuming legal compliance alone settles an ethical question.
Where it appears in your exams
| Qualification | Exam | Relationship | Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACCA | BT | Supporting | September 2026–June 2027 |
| ACCA | SBL | Supporting | September 2026–June 2027 |
| FIA | FBT | Supporting | September 2026–June 2027 |