Lecture Notes: Kantian Ethics

Introduction

• Host: Crash Course Philosophy
• Sponsor: Squarespace
• Theme: Exploration of ethics without reliance on God

Key Philosophical Ideas

Divine Command Theory & Theory of Natural Law

• Divine Command Theory: Morality determined by a deity (e.g., God of Abraham)
• Theory of Natural Law (Thomas Aquinas): Morality is natural because humans were made by God
• Contrast: Immanuel Kant argues against the fusion of religion and morality

Immanuel Kant's Ethical Philosophy

• Core Principle: Morality should be based on reason and consideration for others
• Moral Constancy: Morality is constant, similar to mathematical truths (e.g., 2+2=4)

Hypothetical vs. Categorical Imperatives

Hypothetical Imperatives

• Definition: If-then statements based on desires
  • Example: If you want money, get a job
• Nature: Prudential, not moral

Categorical Imperatives

• Definition: Commands to be followed, regardless of desires
• Source: Derived from pure reason, binding on everyone

Formulations of Categorical Imperative

Universalizability Principle

• Statement: "Act only according to that maxim which you can at the same time will that it should become a universal law without contradiction."
• Application: Before acting, consider if the action should be universalized
  • Example: Stealing (not viable due to inherent contradiction)

Second Formulation: Treating Humanity

• Statement: "Act so that you treat humanity, whether in your own person or in that of another, always as an end, and never as a mere means."
• Explanation: Humans should not be used merely for others' benefit
• Example: Deception (violates autonomy and ability to make informed decisions)

Challenges and Thought Experiments

• Scenario: Elvira and Tony with a would-be murderer
  • Kant's View: Lying is impermissible, as it violates moral law
  • Outcome: Elvira becomes responsible for Tony’s death if her lie leads to it

Conclusion

• Kant's Belief: Rational application of categorical imperative unveils fixed moral truths
• Next Topic: Utilitarianism, the antithesis of Kantianism

Additional Information

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