Kant Moral Philosophy Official Definitions

Question 1

Deontology

Answer 1

Actions are right or wrong in themselves, not depending on their consequences. We have moral duties (deon) to do things which it is right to do and moral duties not to do things which it is wrong to do.

Question 2

Good Will

Answer 2

The intention to do the right action for its own sake, without any other motivation. It is the only thing that is morally good without qualification.

Question 3

Acting in accordance with duty

Answer 3

Doing the right action, for a reason other than it being the right action.

Question 4

Acting out of duty

Answer 4

Doing the right action with a Good Will, for the sole reason that it is your duty.

Question 5

Hypothetical Imperative

Answer 5

An imperative is a command or order. A hypothetical imperative is a statement about what you ought to do, on the assumption of some desire or goal, e.g. if you want to pass your exam you ought to study hard.

Question 6

Categorical Imperative

Answer 6

Absolute commands we are obliged to follow in all circumstances are categorical and only these imperatives are moral. As rational agents we can work out the categorical imperative by asking whether the maxim that lies behind our action is universalisable and treats people as ends in themselves.