Full Idea
Though it is sometimes said that deontologists 'take no account of consequences', this is manifestly false, for many actions we deliberate about only fall under rules or principles when we bring in their predicted consequences.
Gist of Idea
Deontologists do consider consequences, because they reveal when a rule might apply
Source
Rosalind Hursthouse (On Virtue Ethics [1999], Ch.1)
Book Reference
Hursthouse,Rosalind: 'On Virtue Ethics' [OUP 2001], p.33
A Reaction
An important defence of deontology, which otherwise is vulnerable to the 'well-meaning fool' problem. It is no good having a good will, but refusing to think about consequences.