Which ethical theory focuses on the outcomes of actions to determine morality?

The teleological theory is centered on the belief that the morality of an action is determined by its outcomes or consequences. This theory prioritizes the end results of actions, evaluating them based on the goodness or utility they produce. The key idea is that an action is considered morally right if it leads to the most favorable balance of benefits over harms.

This approach is often associated with utilitarianism, which suggests that the best action is the one that maximizes happiness or well-being for the greatest number of people. By focusing on the consequences rather than the actions themselves or the character of the person performing them, teleological theory provides a framework for making ethical decisions based on their potential impact in real-world scenarios.

In contrast, deontological theory emphasizes duties, rules, and obligations, suggesting that certain actions are inherently right or wrong regardless of their outcomes. Virtue ethics concentrates on the character and virtues of the moral agent rather than the morality of specific actions or their results. Rights-based theory focuses on the entitlement of individuals and the protection of their rights, which is a different aspect of ethical consideration. Hence, teleological theory remains the correct choice as it directly correlates outcomes to moral evaluations.