The Paradox of Deontology

The paradox of deontology involves a challenge where adhering strictly to moral rules can sometimes lead to morally questionable outcomes, even though these rules are designed to promote good. For example, following a rule to tell the truth might, in rare cases, cause harm, like revealing sensitive information. This creates tension between the duty to follow rules and the desire to prevent harm, highlighting that rigid rule-following can conflict with actual moral judgment. It questions whether strict adherence to rules always aligns with moral good, illustrating the complexity within moral reasoning.