The Rutland Model: The Consequentialist And Deontological Approach

The Rutland model studies a dilemma from three different points of view: the consequentialist approach, which considers results; the deontological approach, which focuses on personal rights; and the aspirational approach, which considers the person whom is making the decision and who they want to be.
Consequentialist Approach. The consequentialist approach, also known as Utilitarianism, studies the consequences of an outcome and considers “the greatest good for the greatest number of people without causing harm” (Ethical Toolkit, n.d.). By evaluating the overall happiness level created in response to each option will help determine which course of action to take.
The upside to the sisters staying together would be their continued support of one another. Research indicates “that maintenance of the sibling bond is crucial to child development and adjustment, especially for children who are separated from the only homes and parents they have ever known and are placed in unfamiliar …show more content…
It doesn’t take into consideration that one universal truth may conflict with another, leaving the absolutist without direction. For instance: a reporter has the ability to clear the name of an innocent man accused of murder, but would have to reveal the identity of a confidential informant. An Absolutist would have quite the difficult time deciding whether to honor his obligation to his informant or to the accused man.
Aspirational Approach. The Aspirational approach, also known as Virtue ethics, relies more on personal character than a set of rules. The choices we make define who we are, and the aspirational approach asks “What should I aspire to be?” (Ethical Decision Making, n.d.) It helps to ask yourself if you would be comfortable with others knowing how you’ve handled yourself in this situation, or how someone you admire would react if they were facing a similar