Deontological ethics

Definition

Deontological ethics is a moral theory that emphasizes the importance of rules and duties in determining the ethicality of actions, regardless of the consequences. This approach is often associated with philosopher Immanuel Kant, who argued that certain actions are morally obligatory based on established principles. In the realm of documentary cinematography, deontological ethics raises important questions about the responsibilities of filmmakers to their subjects and the ethical standards they must uphold while telling a story.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Deontological ethics prioritizes adherence to moral rules over the outcomes of actions, which means that some actions may be considered wrong even if they lead to positive results.
2. In documentary cinematography, filmmakers face ethical dilemmas such as obtaining informed consent from subjects and accurately representing their experiences.
3. Kant's categorical imperative posits that individuals should act only according to maxims that could be universally applied as laws, guiding ethical decision-making in various contexts.
4. Filmmakers must navigate the tension between artistic expression and ethical obligations, ensuring they respect the dignity and autonomy of their subjects.
5. Deontological ethics can lead to conflicts when strict adherence to rules may result in harm or injustice, challenging filmmakers to balance their duties with potential consequences.

Review Questions

• How does deontological ethics influence the decision-making process for documentary filmmakers when it comes to representing their subjects?
  • Deontological ethics significantly impacts documentary filmmakers by requiring them to adhere to moral duties, such as obtaining informed consent and accurately portraying their subjects' experiences. This ethical framework compels filmmakers to prioritize the rights and dignity of individuals featured in their films over potential narrative or commercial gains. Consequently, filmmakers must navigate complex decisions that reflect their commitment to ethical principles while shaping their storytelling approach.
• Discuss a scenario in which a filmmaker may face a conflict between deontological ethics and the desire for compelling storytelling in documentary cinematography.
  • A filmmaker may encounter a conflict when capturing sensitive moments that require explicit consent from individuals involved. For instance, if a subject reveals deeply personal struggles on camera, a filmmaker might feel compelled to include this footage for its emotional impact. However, from a deontological perspective, prioritizing the subject's right to privacy and dignity may lead to omitting this footage. This conflict illustrates how ethical obligations can clash with the pursuit of compelling storytelling in documentary work.
• Evaluate how applying deontological ethics can transform the landscape of documentary filmmaking by promoting ethical standards and responsibilities.
  • Applying deontological ethics can significantly transform documentary filmmaking by fostering a culture of ethical responsibility and accountability among filmmakers. By emphasizing adherence to moral duties, such as honesty, integrity, and respect for subjects, filmmakers can create work that not only informs but also uplifts and empowers individuals whose stories are being told. This shift towards prioritizing ethical standards can enhance public trust in documentaries as a genre while encouraging more thoughtful representations of diverse voices and experiences.

Related terms

Consequentialism: A moral theory that evaluates the rightness or wrongness of actions based on their outcomes or consequences.

Kantian Ethics: A subset of deontological ethics that focuses specifically on the moral philosophy of Immanuel Kant, emphasizing duty and the categorical imperative.

Ethical Relativism: The belief that moral principles are not absolute and can vary based on culture or individual perspectives.