Kantian Ethics

Question 1

Kant’s “Ultimate Good”

Answer 1

being perfectly rational

Question 2

categorial imperative

Answer 2

Universalizability Principle: “Act only according to that maxim whereby you can at the same time will that it should become a universal law.”
Humanity Formula: “Act so that you treat humanity, whether in yourself or others, always as an end, never merely as a means.”
Kingdom of Ends: Act as if creating a society where everyone respects moral laws.

Question 3

Key Features of Kantian Ethics

Answer 3

Deontological: Duty-based ethics, focusing on the morality of actions rather than consequences.
Moral Law: Derived from reason and universal principles, not emotions or inclinations.
Good Will: The only intrinsically good thing; actions must stem from good intentions.

Question 4

Summum Bonum

Answer 4

The ultimate end (highest good), combining virtue and happiness, achievable in the afterlife.