Ethics theories that base their decisions on consequences are ___________ theories.

Ethics theories that base their decisions on consequences are ___________ theories.

• A. Teleological
• B. Deontological
• C. Virtue ethics
• D. Ethical egoism

Answer: (A)

In many ethical theories, what matters is the outcome of an action. That focus on consequences is what teleological theories emphasize: right and wrong are determined by the results of an action. Deontological theories, by contrast, judge morality by adherence to duties or rules rather than outcomes. Virtue ethics centers on the character and virtues of the person performing the action, not its consequences. Ethical egoism considers consequences in terms of the self’s interests, and while it is outcome-focused, the broader category that captures all theories judging actions by their results is teleological. So the best fit for theories that base decisions on consequences is teleological.

In many ethical theories, what matters is the outcome of an action. That focus on consequences is what teleological theories emphasize: right and wrong are determined by the results of an action. Deontological theories, by contrast, judge morality by adherence to duties or rules rather than outcomes. Virtue ethics centers on the character and virtues of the person performing the action, not its consequences. Ethical egoism considers consequences in terms of the self’s interests, and while it is outcome-focused, the broader category that captures all theories judging actions by their results is teleological. So the best fit for theories that base decisions on consequences is teleological.