Right Action

Often referred to in philosophical circles simply as "the right," this concept along with the good constitutes one of the two fundamental principles of deductive theories of ethics. In modern moral thought, these principles are considered fundamental because it is assumed that only they enable us to explain moral worth, i.e., why something has moral value. The structure of an ethical doctrine, then, depends on how it relates these two principles. Most commonly, principles of right action are conceived in juridical terms and are given the force of law. Accordingly, ethical doctrines that give priority to principles of right action constitute codes of moral law that define the duties of individuals living in community. Thus, ethical doctrines that make the principle of the right primary are deontological.

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