✅Kantian Ethics Flashcards
The basics
Deontological- right or wrongness of an action is in the action itself.
Absolute
Rational
Kants books
Groundwork if the metaphysics or morals
Critiques of practical reason
Autonomy
Kant believed in true enlightenment could only be found in state of autonomy
The ability to make true, unfettered choices.
Date to be wise! - “sapere aude”
What is Kants moral theory
A priori- without experience
Systematic- empirical tests
Values of reason, autonomy, freedom.
What is duty
Reason enables us to reflect ourself. Duty is what we ought to do.
Duty is the moral law within.
Moral obligation of freedom
Kant argued that the will is free and independent. Necessary for morality to be meaningful. If our actions are free choices, then they can now be regarded as acts of s moral agent
Ought implied can
It is not our duty to do things that we are unable to do. For Kant, the fact that we ought to do something implies it is possible to do so.
If you have no choice then you have done nothing wrong. Every moral option must be possible
What is good will
Good will- duty for duty’s sake
The only reason for doing something with is not open to abuse and which can rationally apply to every person
Good will shines forth like a precious jewel
We must use our free will in order to do what is good
We should will what is right and what is right is duty.
Summun bonum
A state of virtue and happiness.
Need to postulate the existence of god.
What are the 3 postulates if morality
Freedom- we are fully rational beings
Immorality- perfect virtue should be rewarded with perfect happiness( summum bonum)
God- must therefore excuse to provide us with summum bonum after death.
Introduction of kantian ethics
Dentologicwk,
What are hypothetical and categorical imperatives
Hypothetical- action good, condition attached to it
IF
Categorical- no if. It is an order
Hypothetical imperative
An action which achieves s good goal or result
Always related to outcome
“If I do this… then this will happen”
Teleological, reason is related to outcome
No good for Kant as he wanted an ABSOLUTE RULE
Categorical imperative
Absolute and universal sense of moral duty which direct humans to right actions
You should do this.
What are the maxims
Guidelines which are net to be truly categoric. Three principles- Universal law Treat humans as ends in themselves Act as if you live in a kingdom of ends
Maxims- can the moral choice be a universal law?
Must be applied in all situations to all people without exception, must be universalised.
Maxims- does the laws treat humans as ends in themselves?
Must seek happiness or others. Humans must be treated with respect, as they are the highest point of gods creation
Does the law act as if you live in kingdom of ends
Must seek just society, everyone should act as though everyone else has the same human rights as themselves
What are kants examples to illustrate his three principles
Deception Theft Suicide Laziness Charity Cruelty to animals