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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Trolley Problem is a thought experiment in ethics that presents a moral dilemma, often used to explore the principles of consequentialism and deontology. Reece Rogers, WIRED, 3 Mar. 2024 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

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 2 Dec. 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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