(RMPS) Kantianism

Q1. What is Kantianism?

A. The moral theory where actions are judged by intentions and duty, following universal rules that apply to everyone i.e. if everyone did it would it work for example always telling the truth.

Q2. What matters most in Kantianism?

A. Intentions (doing the right thing for the right reason).

Q3. What is the Categorical Imperative?

A. Only act in ways you would want everyone to follow.

Q4. How should we treat people in Kantianism?

A. As ends in themselves, never as means.

Q5. Do consequences matter in Kantianism?

A. No — morality is about duty, not outcomes.

Q6. What is a simple way to remember Kantianism?

A. Intention is what matters the most, not outcomes.

What is the Kantian response to moral status of the embryo (moral issue arising from embryo use)

Kantians emphasise treating humans as ends and not means. Meaning you cannot justify using someone to benefit another, regardless of benefit.

What is the Kantian response to the dilemma of consent (moral issue arising from embryo use)

Kantians argue that embryos cannot be treated like objects to be “owned”. Consent cannot justify using them merely as tools for research.

What is the Kantian response to the risk of exploitation (moral issue arising from embryo use)

Kantian argue that embryos should never be treated as a means to an end, even if research benefits many, turning embryos into tools violates moral duty.

What is the Kantian response to genetic manipulation (moral issue arising from embryo use)

Kantians oppose using embryos for experimentation that destroys or alters them, because it treats human life as a means, not an end. Altering embryos for our purpose violates their intrinsic dignity, even for potential benefits, so in their eyes it’s morally wrong.