Which ethical theory evaluates actions based on whether they are morally right, regardless of outcomes?

• A. Utilitarianism
• B. Relativism
• C. Egoism
• D. Deontology

Answer: (D)

Actions are judged by whether they are morally right in themselves, grounded in duties and universal rules, rather than by the results they produce. This is deontological ethics, where the moral value of an act comes from its adherence to a rule or obligation—doing the right thing because it is right, such as telling the truth or keeping a promise, even if a different action would yield a better overall outcome.

This stands in contrast to utilitarianism, which weighs actions by their consequences and aims for the greatest good for the greatest number; relativism, which bases morality on cultural norms; and egoism, which centers morality on what benefits oneself. So evaluating an action solely on its inherent rightness, independent of outcomes, aligns with deontology.