What distinguishes consequentialism from deontological ethics?

• A. Consequentialism is based on absolute moral laws
• B. Deontological ethics evaluates actions based on their outcomes
• C. Consequentialism focuses on the consequences of actions
• D. Deontological ethics prioritizes personal happiness

Answer: (C)

Consequentialism is distinguished by its focus on the outcomes or consequences of actions to determine their moral value. In this ethical framework, the rightness or wrongness of actions is judged primarily by the results they produce. This means that if an action leads to a positive outcome, it is considered morally acceptable, while if it results in negative consequences, it is deemed wrong.

In contrast, deontological ethics is characterized by adherence to rules or duties, irrespective of the outcomes. This approach evaluates actions based on whether they align with certain moral principles or laws rather than on the results they yield. Therefore, the emphasis on consequences as the basis for moral evaluation in consequentialism is what sets it apart from deontological perspectives that prioritize the intrinsic moral nature of actions.