Final answer:
Deontological theories focus on the inherent rightness or wrongness of actions based on duties or rules, as opposed to their consequences. Immanuel Kant's categorical imperative is a central concept within deontology.
Step-by-step explanation:
Ethical theories that focus on duties are referred to as deontological theories. This area of normative ethics maintains that actions are morally right or wrong based on whether they adhere to certain obligations, rules, or duties, rather than on the outcomes (consequences) of the actions. Deontological ethics are contrasted with teleological or consequentialist theories, which determine the morality of actions based on their results or consequences, rather than adherence to duties or rules. A notable philosopher associated with deontology is Immanuel Kant, who introduced the concept of the categorical imperative, a set of moral principles that apply universally and unconditionally.