kantian ethics Flashcards
what are hypothetical imperatives?
commands you should follow if you want something
what are categorical imperatives?
commands you must follow, our duties regardless of your desires, moral obligations, derived from reason
what are the two formulations of categorical imperatives?
the universalizability principle and the formula of humanity (means end principle)
what is the universalizabilty principle?
asking yourself what the general rule that stands behind the particular action that im considering. if you can do the action, then everyone else can. dont make exceptions or yourself
what is the means end principle?
looks at how we should treat others. treat people as an end and not as a mere means. dont use others for your own benefit. we are not objects. recognize that people have goals, values and interests
difference between mere means and means?
mere means–> treating people for your own good (bad)
means–> more acceptable as long as their autonomy and dignity is respected. using someone if they agree
what are perfect duties?
followed with no exceptions (cheating, lying, murder)
what are imperfect duties?
followed with exceptions
what is the golden rule?
treat others the way you want to be treated
what is heteronomy of will?
decision is influenced by factors
what is autonomy of will?
individual decision, independent judgment
what does the first version of categorical imperatives discuss?
universability, imperfect vs perfect duties, impartiality
what does the second version of categorical imperatives discuss?
means end principle
what are some criticisms??
there is not really any guidance
our duties may conflict and Kant does not give guidance
sometimes we are forced to treat people merely as means
is this a consequentialist theory?
no its a deontologist theory
