What is the main focus of deontological ethical theory?

Deontological ethical theory centers on the idea that the morality of an action is based on whether it adheres to a set of established rules or duties. It prioritizes the importance of following ethical principles and obligations rather than the outcomes that result from specific actions. This theory is concerned more with the intrinsic rightness or wrongness of actions themselves, and it posits that certain actions are morally obligatory, regardless of their consequences.

By focusing on adherence to rules, deontological ethics maintains that there are certain moral laws or principles that must be followed to ensure ethical conduct. This perspective can be seen in various ethical frameworks, including Kantian ethics, where respecting autonomy and treating individuals as ends in themselves is paramount. As a result, when considering ethical dilemmas, a deontologist would evaluate the actions based on whether they align with moral duties rather than the potential results of those actions.