Essential Flashcards For Kantian Ethics
What is Kantian Ethics?
This is a deontological argument that is absolutist. It argues that we should always do good, and honesty should be a universal law.
Who was Kant?
Immanuel Kant was a rationalist that believed reason can be used to create moral maxims.
What are maxims?
Rules or moral principles
Explain the term Deontological
This is the action itself, whether the action is right or wrong.
What is Duty and Good will?
Duty is something you should do
And Good will is something that should direct your duty
What is the Summon Bonum
This is the highest good. An ultimate end or goal.
Explain Universalisation
This means that the maxim must be applicable to everyone.
If you lie… you are saying it’s ok to lie and everyone should do it.
Explain the term “means to an end”
This is the way you achieve what you want
What is the Hypothetical Imperative?
If we want X then we should do Y. This was however teleological (looks at the outcome)
What is the Categorical Imperative
It’s a philosophical concept that allows you to judge if an act is morally correct with 3 simple maxims.
What are the 3 maxims of the Categorical Imperative
1) Universal law - Don’t act in a way that you wouldn’t want everyone else to do
2) Humans as ends and not a means - All Humans are important and valued and shouldn’t be used to get to some other end.
3) Kingdom of ends - We should consider that everyone has equal value and has the same rights.
