Kantian Ethics Flashcards
What type of theory is Kantian Ethics?
Deontological theory
What did Kant believe defines the moral worth of an action?
Intent/motive
_______ of reason
Sovereignty
What sets humans apart from animals?
Reason
Why are humans worthy of respect?
They can reason
What did Kant believe a moral theory could be if it were based on reason?
objective and universal
What is The Good Will?
The Good Will is acting in accordance to your duty and morality, without ulterior motives.
What is a hypothetical imperative?
A hypothetical imperative is a conditional maxim
What is a maxim?
A maxim is a general rule of behaviour
What is a categorical imperative?
A categorical imperative is an unconditional maxim
What are the 4 checks in the CI?
Is it categorical? Does it pass the end in itself formulation? Does it commit a contradiction in the will? Does it commit a contradiction in the conception?
What is the end in itself formulation?
The end in itself formulation states that you should never use someone as an ends to a means
What is a contradiction in the will?
A contradiction in the will happens when a maxim could be universalised, but no rational person would want it to be
What is a contradiction in conception?
A contradiction in conception happens when it would be impossible to make the maxim into a universal law. E.g. “Always lie”
What is a perfect duty?
A perfect duty is a duty without exception. It must be followed
What is an imperfect duty?
An imperfect duty is a duty with exception. It must be followed sometimes
If a maxim passes the CI, what kind of duty is it?
A perfect duty
If a maxim passes the end in itself formulation but commits both of the contradictions, what is it?
Perfect duty not to follow
If a maxim passes the end in itself formulation but commits a contradiction in the will, what is it?
Imperfect duty not to follow
If a maxim fails the end in itself formulation and commits a contradiction in conception, what is it?
Perfect duty not to follow
If a maxim passes everything BUT commits a contradiction in the will, what is it?
Imperfect duty not to follow
What is the only situation where there would be an imperfect duty not to follow?
If the maxim creates a contradiction in the will
