Final answer:
In Kantian deontology, actions are evaluated based on adherence to duties and the categorical imperative, with a focus on moral intentions and the intrinsic worth of rational conduct.
Step-by-step explanation:
When evaluating an action according to Kantian deontology, the focus is on the rules or duties that dictate whether an action is morally right rather than the consequences of the action. Immanuel Kant proposed that morally right actions are those that arise from a sense of duty and adhere to the categorical imperative. This implies that an action is moral if it can be made into a universal law that everyone can follow. Essentially, we assess the intent behind the action and whether it upholds the absolute moral norms that respect human dignity and rational agency. For Kant, the foundation of morality is goodwill - the decision to perform our moral duties purely from duty and not for any expected benefits. This will is manifested by conforming to categorical imperatives, which are unconditional moral obligations. In summary, Kantian deontology evaluates an action based on the intentions underlying it and the adherence to absolute moral rules, irrespective of the outcomes. This approach emphasizes the intrinsic worth of rational moral conduct according to universally applicable rules, reflecting Kant's belief in the supreme value of goodwill and rational duty.