Institutional Function Consequentialism

Abstract

In this paper, I present a new account of normative ethics that I call Institutional Function Consequentialism. It is a form of indirect consequentialism that focuses on the optimal harmony of institutions rather than on rules, motives or acts. It proposes one normative foundation for all social order that is composed of different institutions. This account can also be seen as method of consequentializing different rival theories such as Aristotelianism, stoicism, utilitarianism, contractarianism and contractualism.

Keywords

• ethics
• law
• politics
• consequentialism
• deontology
• methodology of ethics