Deontology is an ethical theory that emphasizes the importance of following rules and duties when making moral decisions. It asserts that certain actions are inherently right or wrong, regardless of their consequences. This approach is often associated with the philosopher Immanuel Kant, who argued that moral actions must be guided by universal principles that apply to all rational beings. In deontological ethics, the morality of an action is judged based on adherence to rules or duties rather than the outcomes it produces. This means that individuals have a moral obligation to act according to these principles, even if doing so may lead to negative consequences. Deontology encourages individuals to consider their responsibilities and the moral laws that govern their actions.