The deontological and consequentialist principles are explicitly integrated into the Royd Hierarchy of Moral and Ethical attributes for politicians, to ensure that decisions are not only lawful (deontological) but also result in positive outcomes (consequentialist).

The deontological principles focus on following moral principles and fulfilling obligations that devotees are expected to follow, rather than solely considering the outcomes of actions

Deontological ethics in Christianity are primarily based on the concept of duty and moral obligation as derived from divine commands. The ethical framework of Christianity emphasises following specific duties and obligations that are believed to be universal and unchanging.

One of the key aspects of deontological ethics in Christianity is the belief that certain actions are inherently right or wrong, regardless of their outcomes.

Another important element of deontological ethics in Christianity is the emphasis on following divine commands as a moral duty. The Ten Commandments in the Old Testament serve as a foundational set of rules that outline moral obligations for believers. Obedience to these commandments is seen as a fundamental aspect of living a morally upright life according to Christian deontology.

Furthermore, Christian deontology also includes the concept of agent-relative duties, which are specific obligations that individuals have towards others based on their relationships or roles. For instance, parents have duties towards their children, and vice versa, that are distinct from general moral duties owed to all individuals.

In summary, deontological ethics in Christianity revolve around the idea of fulfilling one’s moral duties and obligations as prescribed by divine commands and universal principles rather than solely focusing on achieving favourable outcomes through one’s actions.

Jewish ethical thinking may also draw on deontological principles found in the Torah and Talmud. The commandments and mitzvot (Jewish religious commandments) serve as a foundation for ethical decision-making.

In Islam, the Quran and the Hadith (sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad) provide a clear moral framework based on divine commandments. The Sharia, or Islamic law, includes specific ethical guidelines that Muslims are expected to follow.

In Buddhism there are the Five Precepts and the Noble Eightfold Path.

The Five Precepts: these are moral guidelines that all Buddhists are encouraged to follow. They include abstaining from killing, stealing, sexual misconduct, lying, and intoxication. These precepts are duties that Buddhists adhere to out of respect for the moral law rather than consequences.

The Noble Eightfold Path: This includes Right View, Right Intention, Right Speech, Right Action, Right Livelihood, Right Effort, Right Mindfulness, and Right Concentration. These components are seen as duties that lead to enlightenment (nirvana).

Hinduism has three deontological principles, Dharma, Yamas and Niyamas.

Dharma: Refers to the moral law and duties specific to an individual’s class (varna), stage of life (ashrama), and personal disposition. Following one’s dharma is seen as an intrinsic duty.

Yamas and Niyamas: These are ethical disciplines and observances that include non-violence (ahimsa), truthfulness (satya), non-stealing (asteya), chastity (brahmacharya), and non-possessiveness (aparigraha).

In Sikhism there are two deontological principles, the Five Kakakars and Rehat Maryada.

The Five Ks (Kakars): These are five physical symbols worn by baptized Sikhs (Khalsa) which include Kesh (uncut hair), Kara (a steel bracelet), Kanga (a wooden comb), Kachera (cotton underwear), and Kirpan (a ceremonial sword). These are seen as duties and symbols of commitment to the faith.

The Code of Conduct (Rehat Maryada): This includes principles and duties such as daily prayers, honest living, sharing with others (Vand Chhako), and selfless service (Seva).

Consequentialist thinking is the overall well-being of all and explores the consequences of various actions and their impact on individuals and the community.

In Christianity, consequentialism is a moral theory that focuses on the outcomes or consequences of actions as the primary determinant of their morality. This ethical framework suggests that the rightness or wrongness of an action is based on the results it produces rather than the action itself.

While consequentialism can offer a framework for analysing ethical decisions and considering outcomes, Christian ethics are multifaceted and Christians often balance this perspective with other ethical considerations rooted in their faith, such as love, justice, mercy, and adherence to biblical teachings.

Jewish ethical thought may also consider consequences, but within the framework of fulfilling divine commandments. The Talmudic tradition explores the consequences of various actions and their impact on individuals and the community.

Consequentialist thinking is present in Islamic ethics, where the outcomes and benefits of actions are considered. However, these considerations are always within the bounds set by divine commandments and Islamic teachings.

In Buddhism there are two consequentialist principles, Karma and Metta.

Karma: The principle of karma emphasizes that actions have consequences that affect one’s future lives. Good actions lead to favourable outcomes, while bad actions lead to suffering. This belief encourages ethical behaviour by focusing on the results of actions.

Metta: Compassion and Loving-Kindness. These principles encourage actions that lead to the welfare and happiness of others, promoting positive consequences.

Hinduism is similar to Buddhism and has two good consequentialist principles, Karma and Punya, but it also includes Papa for bad outcomes.

Karma: The concept of karma in Hinduism posits that one’s actions have direct consequences on one’s current and future lives. Ethical actions lead to good outcomes, encouraging adherence to moral behaviour.

Punya and Papa: Good deeds (punya) lead to merit and positive outcomes, while bad deeds (papa) lead to demerit and negative consequences.

Sikhism consequentialist principles consist of Karma and Seva.

Karma: Like Buddhism and Hinduism, Sikhism believes in karma where good deeds lead to positive outcomes in this life and the next.

Service to Humanity (Seva): Actions aimed at helping others and improving society are seen as leading to positive consequences for both the individual and the community.

The Royd Hierarchy of Moral and Ethical attributes for politicians integrates both deontological (lawful) and consequentialist (positive outcomes) principles, to combine moral truths with actions to well-being and benefit of the whole United Kingdom.

The commonality of morals and ethics among UK faiths contributes to a healthy society that accommodates religious diversity. Whilst the different approaches to ethics in various faiths enrich societal understanding and promote coexistence, or Is it Me!