Which description best matches absolutists in ethical decision making?

• A. Whether a course of action is fundamentally incorrect - e.g., is it against the law?
• B. Will focus on the consequences
• C. Look after their own needs
• D. Seek to maximise overall societal benefit

Answer: (A)

Absolutists decide what’s right or wrong based on unchanging rules that apply to everyone, regardless of outcomes. They assess actions by whether they violate a fundamental prohibition—such as breaking the law—so an action is judged as right or wrong in itself. The idea is that some acts are inherently wrong, no matter what benefit or harm they might produce.

If we compare the other ideas: focusing on consequences describes a utilitarian or outcome-based approach, looking at results rather than inherent rightness. Looking after one’s own needs points to ethical egoism, where personal interests drive judgment. Seeking to maximize overall societal benefit also centers on outcomes, not fixed rules.