What is the difference between teleological ethics and consequentialism?

Philosophy Consequentialism Questions



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What is the difference between teleological ethics and consequentialism?

Teleological ethics and consequentialism are closely related but have distinct differences. Teleological ethics, also known as consequentialist ethics, is a moral theory that focuses on the consequences or outcomes of actions. It asserts that the morality of an action is determined by its consequences, specifically by the amount of overall happiness or well-being it produces.

Consequentialism, on the other hand, is a broader ethical theory that encompasses teleological ethics. While teleological ethics specifically emphasizes the consequences of actions, consequentialism considers a wider range of factors in determining the morality of an action. Consequentialism takes into account not only the consequences but also the intentions, motives, and intrinsic value of an action.

In summary, teleological ethics is a subset of consequentialism, focusing solely on the consequences of actions, while consequentialism considers a broader range of factors in determining the morality of an action.