Deontic Logic

Abstract

Deontic logic is the discipline that attempts to systematize structural properties of systems of norms. Although our everyday reasoning does not always conform exactly to principles of deontic logic, logical investigations can be useful as means to express ideas from moral philosophy in a precise way. Topics in moral philosophy that can be clarified with the help of deontic logic include the relationship between norms and values, supererogation, prima facie versus overall obligations, and the resolution of moral dilemmas.