deontology

noun

de·​on·​tol·​o·​gy ˌdē-ˌän-ˈtä-lə-jē How to pronounce deontology (audio)
: the theory or study of moral obligation
deontological adjective
deontologist noun

Examples of deontology in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The Trolley Problem is a thought experiment in ethics that presents a moral dilemma, often used to explore the principles of consequentialism and deontology. WIRED, 24 Mar. 2023 Utilitarianism, which focuses on the consequences of an action, is typically opposed to deontology, which says morality is determined by the act itself. Olivia Goldhill, Quartz, 19 Mar. 2020 In essence, deontology explains that lying is always wrong because if everyone lied, human communications would break down entirely. 2. G. James Lemoine, The Conversation, 7 Oct. 2019

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'deontology.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1826, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of deontology was in 1826

Dictionary Entries Near deontology

Cite this Entry

“Deontology.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/deontology. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Medical Definition

deontology

noun
de·​on·​tol·​o·​gy ˌdē-ˌän-ˈtäl-ə-jē How to pronounce deontology (audio)
plural deontologies
: the theory or study of moral obligation
deontological adjective
deontologist noun
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