Determine what you expect a moral theory to accomplish. Consider that it might help people determine what moral behavior is, assess what is morally required in a situation, recognize morally relevant facts and prioritize those facts to avoid moral dilemmas.
Define which branch of deontology you are evaluating. Differentiate between agent-centered, patient centered and contractualist theories. Consider that Kantian deontology embraces all three aspects.
Explore the idea of duty. Focus on how moral duties are determined according to deontological theory. Address Kant's idea that all people are held to the same moral standards because of universal ethical standards. Use real world examples to support or question this idea.
Evaluate the benefits of deontological theories. Consider the emphasis on personal responsibility, protection of others, ability to do more than is required morally, and the idea that some actions are neither moral nor immoral.
Describe the arguments against deontology. Include ideas about the needs of the community in relation to individual rights, the inability of deontology to resolve moral dilemmas and the paradox that if all duties are categorical it is impossible to prioritize your decisions.
Attempt to resolve the arguments against deontology. Describe how deontologists answer these questions. Consider how other theories, especially consequentialist theories, answer these questions. Conclude with a final statement regarding the strength of the arguments described.