Deontological and Teleological Ethics

I was pleased to discover in Meta Theo 1 this week the difference between deontological and teleological ethics.  My pleasure came from being able to identify  these concepts of reasoning when applied to a moral or ethical decision.  Until class this week,  I simply had to guess at what was happening in this process. I had observed this process in action many times , but I had no idea what it was called. Now I know, and it brings a mischievous satisfaction in being able to spot it and name it. If I can name it, then I can claim it!

 It seems that most people tend to get in line behind the person who is proclaiming deontology as the way to make an ethical decision. After all, this seems like the safe way to go; ascertain what the rules are and apply them systematically to the decision or situation at hand. Pretty clear-cut; end of discussion. But wait, along comes another viewpoint, known as teleological ethical interpretation, whereby the end result is considered before a decision or viewpoint is rendered. If the end result is good, then the means will justify the end. Now this method may sound a little wishy-washy, and a tiny bit controversial, because taking this path implies a judgment call.

 I wonder if one could look at a particular decision, dilemma, or situation and predetermine which method, deontological or teleological, would be most appropriate for the question at hand? I think I heard you say,” I don’t think so “, but then isn't that a deontological viewpoint? Looking at the dilemma or the question at hand and gauging the seriousness of the situation, seems to me to be an appropriate way to choose which method to use. Think of it this way, it would be like going to a card game and playing with phony money versus playing with real money. Seems if one is involved in a poker game for fun, then we wouldn't have to be so concerned about the rules. But, if we were doing some hefty betting, then we would for sure want to be very clear on the rules. So, applying this analogy to the real world, if we have a minor dispute or an insignificant disagreement, let’s allow a little variance in the rules, as long as the outcome looks favorable. But, if we have a life or death situation where the outcome is critical, then perhaps, we better pay close attention to the rules as we move toward a decision. Another way of stating this might be to say, let’s lighten up a little bit on not so serious issues, and be open to applying a teleological process. But when the stakes get high and the issues get very serious with significant implications, bring on the deontological approach. Now, I don't propose that this idea is a hard and fast rule ( deontological) , but more to be used as a guideline when approaching ethical or moral decisions in one's life. 

At this point, you may have thought I have lost my mind altogether, however that is not exactly true. It depends on whether you’re looking at it from a deviant deontological viewpoint or a terrific teleological viewpoint. In a matter as subjective as losing one’s mind, perhaps it might be best to throw both methods out and look at the situation from a contextual viewpoint. Considering the amount of reading, homework ,study  and term papers that are  due soon, contextually I would plead temporary insanity. After the trimester is completed and we are home in front of our fireplaces reading light fiction or watching soap operas on TV , sanity may return, but only for a short while. Winter term is on its way.