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A consequentialist theory focused on maximizing overall happiness or utility. Notable philosophers include Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill.

Emphasizes the importance of interpersonal relationships and care as a moral framework. Carol Gilligan and Nel Noddings are important proponents.

Based on the idea of a social contract or agreements among individuals for mutual advantage. Thomas Hobbes and John Rawls are notable philosophers.

Argues that there are no moral principles and that moral judgment can only be made in the context of the particular details of a situation. Notable contributors include Jonathan Dancy.

Highlights individual freedom, choice, and responsibility. Notable existentialist ethicists include Jean-Paul Sartre and Søren Kierkegaard.

Focuses on virtues and moral character rather than rules or consequences. Aristotle is considered the father of Virtue Ethics.

Ethical theory which proposes that there are inherent objective moral laws discoverable by human reason. Thomas Aquinas is a pivotal contributor to Natural Law Theory.

Concerned with the moral relationship between humans and the natural world, focusing on the ethical treatment of the environment and non-human entities. Aldo Leopold and Peter Singer have made significant contributions to this field.

A group of normative ethical theories that judges the rightness or wrongness of actions based on their outcomes. John Stuart Mill can also be associated with a form of consequentialism through his work in utilitarianism.

The ethical belief that individuals should act in accordance with their own self-interest. Max Stirner is a philosopher associated with ethical egoism.

Critiques traditional ethics which often undervalues or ignores the moral experience of women. Philosophers include Simone de Beauvoir and Alison Jaggar.

An ethical theory centered on adherence to moral laws or duties. Immanuel Kant is a key figure in deontological ethics.

The doctrine that knowledge, truth, and morality exist in relation to culture, society, or historical context, and are not absolute. No notable single philosopher is uniquely associated with ethical relativism.

This theory asserts that what is moral is determined by what God commands, and moral obligations are the commands of a loving God. Notable philosophers include Augustine of Hippo.