Kantian ethics

What is Kantian Ethics?

A deontological ethical theory based on duty, reason, and universal moral laws.

Who developed Kantian Ethics?

Immanuel Kant.

What type of ethical theory is Kantian Ethics?

Deontological, absolutist, and non-consequentialist.

What does deontological mean?

Actions are judged by whether they fulfil moral duties rather than by their consequences.

What does non-consequentialist mean?

The morality of an action does not depend on its outcomes.

What is good will according to Kant?

The only thing that is good without qualification.

Why is good will important?

An action is morally worthy only if it is done from duty and good will.

What is duty?

The moral obligation to act according to reason and moral law.

What does Kant mean by acting from duty?

Doing the right thing because it is morally required.

What does Kant mean by acting in accordance with duty?

Doing the right thing but for another motive, such as self-interest.

Why is acting from duty morally superior?

Because it demonstrates genuine respect for moral law.

What is reason's role in Kantian Ethics?

Reason allows humans to discover universal moral principles.

What is the categorical imperative?

Kant's supreme moral principle that applies to all rational beings in all situations.

Why is it called a categorical imperative?

Because it applies unconditionally regardless of desires or circumstances.

What is a hypothetical imperative?

A conditional rule that depends on a person's goals or desires.

Give an example of a hypothetical imperative.

If you want to pass your exam, you should revise.

What is the first formulation of the categorical imperative?

The Formula of Universal Law.

What is the Formula of Universal Law?

Act only according to a maxim that you could will to become a universal law.

What is a maxim?

The principle or rule behind an action.

How is the Formula of Universal Law applied?

Ask whether everyone could consistently act on the same maxim.

Why is lying wrong according to the Formula of Universal Law?

If everyone lied, trust would become impossible and lying would lose its purpose.

What is the second formulation of the categorical imperative?

The Formula of Humanity.

What is the Formula of Humanity?

Treat humanity, whether in yourself or others, always as an end and never merely as a means.

What does it mean to treat someone as an end?

Respect their intrinsic worth and rational autonomy.

What does it mean to treat someone merely as a means?

Use them solely for your own purposes without regard for their dignity.

Why is exploitation wrong according to Kant?

It treats people merely as means rather than ends in themselves.

What is the third formulation of the categorical imperative?

The Kingdom of Ends.

What is the Kingdom of Ends?

An ideal society where all rational beings follow universal moral laws and respect one another.

What is autonomy?

The ability to govern oneself through reason.

Why is autonomy important in Kantian Ethics?

Moral actions must be freely chosen through rational deliberation.

What is heteronomy?

Being controlled by external influences, desires, or emotions.

Why does Kant reject heteronomy?

Moral decisions should be based on reason, not feelings or consequences.

What is a perfect duty?

A duty that must never be broken.

Give an example of a perfect duty.

Do not lie.

What is an imperfect duty?

A duty that should generally be followed but allows flexibility.

Give an example of an imperfect duty.

Help others in need.

What is one strength of Kantian Ethics?

It provides clear and universal moral rules.

What is one strength of Kantian Ethics?

It promotes respect for human dignity and rights.

What is one strength of Kantian Ethics?

It treats all people equally.

What is one weakness of Kantian Ethics?

It can be inflexible in difficult situations.

What is one weakness of Kantian Ethics?

It may require telling the truth even when serious harm would result.

What example is often used to criticise Kant's view on lying?

The murderer at the door scenario.

What is the murderer at the door criticism?

Kant's theory suggests you should not lie even to save an innocent life.

What is a consequentialist criticism of Kant?

The consequences of actions cannot be ignored.

How might Kant respond to criticisms about consequences?

We are responsible for our actions, not outcomes beyond our control.

What is a criticism concerning conflicting duties?

Kant offers little guidance when duties appear to clash.

What is one religious criticism of Kantian Ethics?

It relies on human reason rather than divine commands.

How does Kantian Ethics differ from Natural Law?

Kant bases morality on reason and duty rather than human purpose and nature.

How does Kantian Ethics differ from Utilitarianism?

Kant focuses on duties and intentions rather than consequences.

What AO2 comparison is important for OCR?

Whether morality is best based on universal duties and respect for persons or on the consequences of actions.