Which ethical model is focused on duty, rules, and obligations?

• A. Utilitarianism
• B. Deontology
• C. Care ethics
• D. Virtue ethics

Answer: (B)

Deontology is the ethical model that defines right action by adherence to duties and rules rather than by outcomes. It holds that some acts are intrinsically right or wrong because they express a moral duty or principle, often tied to universal standards. A central idea is to act according to maxims you could will to become universal laws and to treat people as ends in themselves, not merely as means. This means you would uphold truths and keep promises even when breaking them might yield a better result in a specific situation. It contrasts with utilitarianism, which judges actions by their consequences; care ethics, which emphasizes relationships and context; and virtue ethics, which focuses on character and flourishing. Because the emphasis here is on duty, rules, and obligations guiding what counts as the right action, deontology best fits.