Kevin Martinez A Note on Deontology
The act of doing something that is morally right through a sense of duty is called
Deontology. This article portrayed a German philosopher’s views on ethics and ethical
behavior. Through my experience of ethics, I am able to analyze the contingencies that are
being argued in this article. Professor Kant quoted that ‘moral rules do not have
exceptions’, but through examples I am able to contradict his statement.
Kant notes that ordinary morality includes the standards of truth telling, promise keeping,
equal rights, fairness, and not causing suffering. Although I agree that these are morals
reasonable people follow, my experiences have made me think otherwise. I believe that we
are in a society where most powerful people discrete their morals and norms in order to
obtain more power.
Kant says that it is unethical and wrong to lie, even when protecting your significant other
from being tortured. Even though I do believe that lying is unethical, I also believe that it
is not wrong when an extreme circumstance requires lying. Kant’s wisdom says that no
outcome could excuse breaking the moral law, and I can always challenge his thoughts by
bringing up self-defense or other justifiable arguments.
The moral rules that are applicable in society consist on avoiding harm to others, honor
contracts, respect people’s rights and property and help one another. I learned that these are
non-negotiable moral rules and must be followed in order to construct a secure
environment.
This article emphasized that society needs guidelines. It needs a moral law in order satisfy
the publics well-being. Kant’s arguments helped me identify my own morals. It also
allowed me to justify my opinions on my own personal values.