Hypothetical vs categorical imperatives

Question 1

What does reason tell us about other people, according to Kant?

Answer 1

Reason tells us that other people are rational agents, making us all equal in that regard.

Question 2

What conclusion does Kant draw from the idea of equality through reason?

Answer 2

Kant concludes that we should only act on principles that can be followed by everyone.

Question 3

What did Kant call the principle that we should always act on, regardless of our desires?

Answer 3

Kant called it the categorical imperative.

Question 4

What is the difference between a hypothetical imperative and a categorical imperative?

Answer 4

A hypothetical imperative is based on achieving desired ends, while a categorical imperative is based on objective necessity, without regard to any other end.

Question 5

According to Kant, what is the defining characteristic of a categorical imperative?

Answer 5

A categorical imperative is thought of as good in itself, necessary in a will that conforms to reason as its principle.

Question 6

How did Kant’s universal absolutist ethics influence modern human rights theory?

Answer 6

Kant’s ethics laid the groundwork for modern human rights theory and contributed to the development of concepts like the United Nations.