Kantian Deontology

What is Kantian deontology?

A normative ethical theory based on duty, where actions are morally right if done from duty, in accordance with the moral law.

What does it mean to act ‘from duty’?

To do the right thing because it is right, not because of consequences or emotions.

What is a maxim?

A principle or rule that guides an individual’s action.

What is the Categorical Imperative?

A universal moral law stating that one must act only on maxims that can be willed as a universal law.

What is the Formula of Universal Law (FUL)?

“Act only on that maxim through which you can at the same time will that it should become a universal law.”

What is the Formula of Humanity (FH)?

“Act so that you treat humanity, whether in yourself or in others, always as an end and never merely as a means.”

What is a hypothetical imperative?

A command that depends on a desired outcome, e.g. “If you want to pass, study hard.”

What is a categorical imperative?

An unconditional moral obligation that applies regardless of desire or consequence.

What is Kant’s view of the ‘Good Will’?

The only thing good without qualification; it acts from duty in accordance with the moral law.

Why is making a false promise immoral in Kantian ethics?

Because if everyone made false promises, the concept of promising would collapse – the maxim can’t be universalised.

How would Kant assess stealing to feed your family?

Stealing violates universal law and uses others merely as a means; therefore, it’s immoral, even if motivated by compassion.

Can Kant’s ethics support lying to save a life? Why or why not?

No – lying cannot be universalised without contradiction, even if it has good consequences.

How does Kant distinguish between acting from duty and acting in accordance with duty?

Acting from duty is morally praiseworthy; acting in accordance with duty (e.g., helping others for praise) is not.

Why might Kant reject Utilitarianism?

Because it makes morality depend on consequences and can justify immoral acts if they produce good outcomes.

What is the problem of conflicting duties in Kantian ethics?

If two duties conflict (e.g., telling the truth vs. saving a life), Kant offers no clear solution.

How does the criticism of ‘rigidity’ challenge Kant’s ethics?

It is too strict — it forbids lying even to prevent harm, which many find morally counterintuitive.

How might Kant respond to moral dilemmas?

He would apply the categorical imperative, but critics argue it fails to resolve genuine moral conflicts.

What is the issue of ignoring consequences in Kant’s theory?

It may lead to outcomes that are harmful or unjust because only intention/duty matters, not the result.

What is the ‘humanity as ends’ criticism?

It may not account for complex real-life situations where harm might be necessary for a greater good.

Why is universalisability important in Kantian ethics?

It ensures that moral principles are consistent, impartial, and fair to everyone.

Does Kant believe emotions should motivate moral actions?

No – morality must come from reason, not emotion or inclination.

How does Kant define autonomy?

How does Kant define autonomy?

The ability to freely give oneself moral law, guided by reason, not by external pressures or desires.

Why is treating someone ‘as a means only’ wrong?

It denies their rational nature and autonomy, reducing them to a tool for your own ends.

What is the role of reason in Kantian ethics?

Reason alone determines the moral law and our duties — morality is not based on feeling or experience.

Outline Kant’s Formula of Universal Law. (3 marks)

Explain that moral actions must be based on universalizable maxims — rules that everyone could follow without contradiction.

Explain the difference between hypothetical and categorical imperatives. (5 marks)

Show how hypothetical imperatives depend on desires, while categorical ones apply universally and unconditionally.

Explain why Kant believes the Good Will is the only thing good without qualification. (5 marks)

Because other qualities (intelligence, courage) can be used for evil; only a will that acts from duty is truly moral.

Explain how Kant’s theory respects human dignity. (5 marks)

By treating humans as ends in themselves, Kant protects autonomy and moral equality.

Kant’s theory is too inflexible.’ Discuss. (12 marks)

Include both sides: strictness as moral strength vs. moral dilemmas (e.g., Nazis at the door), and evaluate effectiveness.

How does Kantian ethics avoid moral relativism?

It provides absolute moral laws grounded in reason, applicable to all rational beings.

How does Kant’s moral law differ from moral laws in religion or culture?

It is universal and rational, not dependent on divine command or social convention.