Normative ethics

In moral philosophy, deontological ethics or deontology () is the normative ethical theory that the morality of an action should be based on whether that action itself is right or wrong under a series of rules and principles, rather than based on the consequences of the action. It is sometimes described as duty-, obligation-, or rule-based ethics. Deontological ethics is commonly contrasted to utilitarianism and other consequentialist theories, virtue ethics, and pragmatic ethics. In the deontological approach, the inherent rightfulness of actions is considered more important than their conseq

Speciesism () is a term used in philosophy regarding the treatment of individuals of different species. The term has several different definitions. Some specifically define speciesism as discrimination or unjustified treatment based on an individual's species membership, while others define it as differential treatment without regard to whether the treatment is justified or not. Richard D. Ryder, who coined the term, defined it as "a prejudice or attitude of bias in favour of the interests of members of one's own species and against those of members of other species". Speciesism results in the

study of ethical action; branch of philosophical ethics that investigates questions about how one morally ought to act and examines standards for the rightness and wrongness of actions

normative ethical theories

Ethical theory

Contractualism as a broad term refers to a family of political or ethical theories that have their roots in the social contract tradition. Contractualist ethical theories base morality in mutually beneficial agreement or contract among rational, reasonable agents. Contractualism is sometimes referred to as the "third approach" in morality as opposed to its two prominent rivals, consequentialism and deontology. Contractualism in its narrower meaning refers to one particular branch of contractualist ethical theories developed by T. M. Scanlon.

argument focused on ethics

Sentientism (or sentiocentrism) is an ethical philosophy that places sentience at the center of moral concern. It holds that moral consideration extends to all sentient beings. Gradualist sentientism assigns moral consideration based on the degree of sentience.

Christian theology

political philosophy based on ethics

Ethical theory which postulates that societal progress can inform standards of moral behavior

ethical positions prioritizing the reduction of suffering