Even though I just finished philosophy last semester, I’m still confused as to what they both mean. If utilitarian refers to “maximizing happiness,” then what does deontology mean?
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Deontology is based on a series of ethics, kind of moral rules, rights and wrongs, if you will. They are based in various theologies (see; kants universal maxims, etc) and inform what is considered the ethical greater good/outcome in this philosophy.
Is it informed very heavily by a bunch of people’s ideas of what is moral/good and is hugely variable. There are very old school ethics and more contemporary ones. This variability means it’s hugely subjective and one can pick and choose which deontological philosophy to apply.
Utilitarianism is based on consequences….decisions are made to ensure the consequence always = the greater good of all outcomes. It is relatively more objective however still open to philosophical discussion because there are many philosophical layers when determining the net good of an outcome.
This ethic is applied on a case by case basis and there are no other rules or moral obligations to guide your decision other than purely maximising good for the greatest amount of people
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