Kantian Ethics

Question 1

Deontological

Answer 1

Ethics based on duty or obligation. Doing what is right.

Question 2

Goodwill

Answer 2

The only intrinsically good thing, having good motives and intentions. Motive and outward action to correspond.

Question 3

Autonomy

Answer 3

‘Self-ruling’, individual freedom and choice.

Question 4

Axe Man Example

Answer 4

If an Axe Man is asking where your friend or family are, Kant would argue that it is your duty to tell the truth and no it lie to them. The possible consequences are irrelevant.

Question 5

Hypothetical Imperative

Answer 5

A moral obligation that is dependant on desiring the goal in question. For the sake of an end result, our maxim for action only applies in certain cases or is dependent on the outcome, this is not a moral duty.

Question 6

Categorical Imperative

Answer 6

An unconditional obligation that we are able to work without reason. Compulsive, regardless of context, non- negotiable.

Question 7

Three Formulations

Answer 7

Used to determine if an action is good.

Question 8

Universal Law

Answer 8

An action we propose should be able to make a universal law. If everybody acted in this way, what would the consequences be? Every action must be able to be universalised. For example… you cannot universalise stealing.

Question 9

Person as Ends

Answer 9

Humans are rational and autonomous. They are ends in themselves and not ‘means to and end’. You must not treat people as an object/ accessory/ resource to get the result you desire.

Question 10

Kingdom of Ends

Answer 10

Brings the other 2 together. If everyone was treated as ends would the action be permitted? The perfect kingdom/ final destination. Would the action fit into the perfect world?

Question 11

The Three Postulates

Answer 11

The 3 factors that enable the theory to work. Kant does not think they are proved but they have to be assumed practically in order for morality to exist.

Question 12

We have free will

Answer 12

If we were not genuinely free then there can be no moral responsibility for our actions.

Question 13

There is an afterlife, we are immortal

Answer 13

Mortality requires the summum bonum (the highest good) to be achieved. This is where perfect virtue is rewarded by perfect happiness. It doesn’t happen in this lifetime so it must happen in the next.

Question 14

God exists

Answer 14

In order that the summum bonum actually occurs and goodness is rewarded by happiness, there must be a God who ensures the justice of the universe.