Kant's Categorical Imperative

Exploring the ethical framework asking: "What if everyone did what I'm about to do?"

Key Concepts

  • Act only according to rules you'd universalize
  • Respect people as ends, not merely means
  • Duty-based rather than consequence-based ethics
  • Forms the foundation of deontological ethics

Vocabulary

Categorical ImperativeKant's fundamental principle: act according to maxims you'd universalize.
DeontologyEthical theory based on duty and rules.
MaximThe principle upon which a person acts.
UniversalizeTo make applicable as a general principle for everyone.
AutonomyThe capacity of individuals to govern themselves.

Discussion

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