Weegy: Non-consequentialist or deontological approaches This approach, associated with Immanuel Kant (1724–1804), is sometimes referred to as ‘duty ethics’. [ Kant’s aim was to establish a set of absolute moral rules, devel- oped through the application of reason. He also put forward an acid test for evaluat- ing the quality of moral rules and this is termed: the categorical imperative. This states that: ‘I ought never to act except in such a way that I can also will that my maxim should become a universal law.’ In other words, moral rules should follow the principle of reciprocity: do as you would be done by. This premise can be found in the moral principles of many religious systems, including Islam, Christianity, Judaism and Buddhism. See, for example, the Ten Commandments. Kant further stated: ‘Act in such a way that you always treat humanity . . . never simply as a means, but always at the same time as an end.’ The de?ning character- istics of this approach are the universal applicability of principles to all humanity, and basic respect for humans. A key notion for Kant was that of intentionality. It might well be that the outcome of an act leads to very bad consequences for people – for example, the closure of a site and subsequent job losses – but if one’s aims and intentions are good, then the act is a moral one. It’s all about motivation and meaning. Goodpaster (1984) has attempted to develop a set of rules along Kantian lines for business practice: 1. Avoid and prevent harming others. 2. Help those in need. 3. Do not lie or cheat. 4. Respect the rights of others. 5. Keep promises or contracts. 6. Obey the law. 7. Be fair. 8. Encourage others to follow these principles. ] (More)