Which statement best contrasts deontology with utilitarianism?

• A. Deontology focuses on inherent rightness of actions; Utilitarianism focuses on outcomes
• B. Deontology emphasizes outcomes; Utilitarianism emphasizes rules
• C. Both ignore consequences
• D. Both are solely based on virtue

Answer: (A)

The distinction being tested is whether right action is determined by inherent duties or by outcomes. Deontology judges actions by their intrinsic rightness and adherence to moral duties or universal rules, regardless of what results they produce. Utilitarianism judges actions by their consequences, aiming to maximize overall good or happiness, so the right action is the one that leads to the best outcome.

That’s why the best statement is the one that says deontology focuses on the inherent rightness of actions while utilitarianism focuses on outcomes. For contrast: a claim that deontology emphasizes outcomes and utilitarianism emphasizes rules flips the ideas, and a claim that both ignore consequences or are solely based on virtue misrepresents what each framework prioritizes.