Duty Ethics

Christina Herrington posted Aug 7, 2019 7:43 PM

A strict deontologist believes what is morally right or wrong by the actions themselves, rather than referring to the consequences of those action, or the character of the person who performs them (Cline, 2019). Thus, a strict deontologist would stand by their decision not to intervene and de-program the missile launch as he or she took an oath not to make decisions beyond their role or intervene in government actions.

My duty is to my family and my role as a mother is to be able to listen to reason, consistency in my parenting style, treating my family with respect and setting an example (Leonard, 2016).  It falls right in line with Kant’s approach to ethics. I place high moral value on the decisions I make for my family and attempt to do things for the right reasons.  Although, I wouldn’t say that my role as a mother is done out of a sense of duty or obligation but of good will (Pecorino, 2002).

In this situation, I’m not certain that a strict deontologist would be completely at odds with the thinking of Immanuel Kant. Deontologists also live in a universe of moral rules, such as: It is wrong to kill innocent people (Bobyrov, 2012). I imagine the deontologist would be conflicted if faced with such a decision and would consider the thought to intervene to do the right thing and save lives no matter the cost.  After all, isn’t free will part of being human? 

 References

Bobyrov, V.M. (2012). Bases of Bioethics and Biosafety: Study guide for students of higher educational establishments. Retrieved from Google Books.