Consequentialism

Consequentialism comprises a set of moral theories according to which normative properties depend solely on consequences. Broadly speaking, consequentialist accounts differ with respect to the kinds of consequences regarded as morally relevant (intended or actual) and the underlying theory of goodness (welfarian or nonwelfarian). It is argued here that the Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct (American Psychological Association, 2017), although formulated primarily in deontological terms, must nevertheless be interpreted from a consequentialist perspective. On the one hand, the duties binding psychologists are justified by the consequences produced by prohibited or prescribed actions. On the other hand, the evaluation of consequences is indispensable for ensuring that norms can be meaningfully applied in real-life professional circumstances.