Final answer:
The three main components of morality in normative moral theories are consequentialism, which focuses on the consequences of actions; deontological ethics, which is based on duty or rules; and virtue ethics, which centers on character traits.
Step-by-step explanation:
The three main components of morality are often outlined in normative moral theories, which are systems that aim to establish and defend norms of conduct. These components are consequentialism, deontological ethics, and virtue ethics. The differences between them depend on the criterion they use to determine moral conduct.
- Consequentialism argues that the morality of an action is determined solely by its consequences. An action is considered right if it leads to the most favorable balance of good over bad consequences for everyone affected by the action.
- Deontological ethics posits that morality is grounded in duty or rules, and actions are right if they align with moral norms or principles, regardless of the outcomes that they produce.
- Virtue ethics suggests that right action flows from right character and that moral behavior is about developing virtues such as wisdom, compassion, and courage, with actions being a reflection of a moral character.