Which ethical framework emphasizes duties and rules in sport?

• A. Deontology
• B. Consequentialism
• C. Virtue ethics
• D. Cultural relativism

Answer: (A)

Duties and rule-following are central to this framework. In sport, deontology focuses on the obligation to follow the established rules and to treat opponents with fairness and respect, regardless of the consequences. It holds that some actions are right or wrong because they align with our duties—such as not cheating, not harming others, and upholding the integrity of the game—independent of whether bending a rule would yield a better outcome. This is different from consequentialism, which judges actions by their results and might justify cheating if it leads to a better end. Virtue ethics, meanwhile, emphasizes the kind of person one should be and the development of virtuous character rather than strict rule adherence. Cultural relativism suggests moral judgments depend on cultural norms, which would undermine universal sports rules. So the focus on duties and rules in sport best fits deontology.