Describe deontological approach to ethical decision making? What does this mean?

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The deontological approach to ethical decision making views morality as a set of absolute rules, or duties, that one should follow. This means that when faced with an ethical dilemma, the right choice is determined by evaluating which action adheres most closely to these established standards. Unlike other approaches such as utilitarianism or consequentialism, the deontological approach does not consider outcomes but rather looks at whether an action conforms to a predetermined moral code. For example, in the case of lying, it would be deemed wrong regardless of any potential benefit that could come from it. In this way, the deontological approach emphasizes following universal principles of morality and justice above all else. Ultimately, this philosophy seeks to cultivate moral behavior by forcing people to adhere strictly to their own conscience and sense of what is just and fair – regardless of external pressure or incentives.