What does Deontology emphasize as essential for an action to be considered moral?

Deontology, a normative ethical theory often associated with philosopher Immanuel Kant, emphasizes the importance of the motives or intentions behind an action as the key factor in determining its moral worth. According to deontological ethics, an action is considered moral if it is performed out of a sense of duty and adheres to a set of ethical principles or rules, regardless of the consequences that may result from it.

This focus on intention suggests that what matters is not just the action itself or its outcomes, but rather the inner commitment of the individual to act in accordance with moral duties. Therefore, having good motives and a commitment to doing what one believes is right are central to deontological ethics.

In contrast, the other options focus on different aspects of morality: one emphasizes outcomes and the resultant happiness, another considers adherence to societal laws, and the last highlights positive consequences. While these aspects may play a role in moral considerations, deontology distinctly centers on the actor's intentions as the foundation for determining the morality of an action.