Immanuel Kant The Categorical Imperative

Part I. The Ethics of Duty More than any other philosopher, Kant emphasized the way in which the moral life was centered on duty.

Two Conceptions of Duty Duty as following orders –The Adolph Eichmann model –Duty is external –Duty is imposed by others Duty as freely imposing obligation on one’s own self –The Kantian model –Duty is internal –We impose duty on ourselves The second conception of duty is much more morally advanced than the first.

Duty and Inclination Kant was mistrustful of inclinations (Neigungen) as motivations –This was part of his view of the physical world as causally determined Saw feelings as –Unreliable –Passive –Phenomenal

Criticisms of the Ethics of Duty Moral Minimalism –Requirements are not heartfelt Moral Alienation –Alienated from feelings Duty and “Just Following Orders” –This is not Kant’s genuine position

Part II. Universalizability and the Categorical Imperative Central insight: What is fair for one is fair for all

Living by Rules Most of us live by rules much of the time. Some of these are what Kant called Categorical Imperatives—unconditional commands that are binding on everyone at all times.

Types of Imperatives Hypothetical Imperative: –“If you want to drive to UCLA from San Diego, take the 405 freeway.” –Structure: if…then… Categorical Imperative –“Always tell the truth” –Unconditional, applicable at all times

Maxims Maxims, according to Kant, are subjective rules that guide action. –Relevant Act Description –Sufficient Generality All actions have maxims, such as, –Never lie to your friends. –Never act in a way that would make your parents ashamed of you. –Always watch out for number one. –It’s ok to cheat if you need to.

Categorical Imperatives: Universality “Always act in such a way that the maxim of your action can be willed as a universal law of humanity.” --Immanuel Kant

Categorical Imperatives: Respect “Always treat humanity, whether in yourself or in other people, as an end in itself and never as a mere means.” --Immanuel Kant

Categorical Imperatives: Respect “Always act as though you are in a kingdom of ends” --Immanuel Kant

Exceptions Are exceptions possible for Kant? –Yes, as long as they can be consistently universalized Examples –The speeding car We can universalize an exception for something like ambulance drivers –The Gestapo example Can we universalize a maxim to deceive in order to save innocent lives?

Conclusion Kant saw that morality must be fair and evenhanded. The Kantian path offers a certain kind of moral safety in an uncertain world.