The distinction between consequentialism and deontology marks a fundamental divide in ethical theory, with “the good” and “the right” serving as their respective moral claims. Utilitarian ethics in international relations, guided by consequentialist principles, emphasizes peace, security, and the economic development of nations. The publication of John Rawls A Theory of Justice signals a deontological turn in ethics. In the field of international relations, deontological ethics manifests in the theories of “rights”, particularly those of “human rights”. However, Kantian deontologists argue that rightsbased ethics face significant theoretical and practical limitations. With the advancement of globalization, they contend that “obligations” should become a universal virtue beyond traditional national boundaries. While utility, rights, and obligations all represent legitimate moral claims in human ethical life, each carries its own strengths and weaknesses. The vision of a community with a shared future for mankind, anchored in the Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and Global Civilization Initiative, embodies the unity of “the good” and “the right”, offering a Chinese solution to harmonizing ethical values in global governance.
