Crash Course Philosophy: Kantian Ethics

Introduction

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Kantian Ethics Overview

• Immanuel Kant (18th-century philosopher)
  • Morality should not be connected to religion
  • Moral truths are constant and can be determined by reason
• Key Concepts
  • Hypothetical Imperatives: If-then statements based on desires
    • Example: "If you want money, get a job"
    • About prudence, not morality
  • Categorical Imperatives: Moral obligations derived from pure reason
    • Must be followed regardless of desires

Categorical Imperative Formulations

• Universalizability Principle
  • "Act only according to that maxim which you can at the same time will that it should become a universal law without contradiction"
  • Example: Stealing
    • Universalizing stealing leads to contradictions (endless stealing cycle)
    • Not fair to make exceptions for oneself
• Thought Bubble Example
  • Real-world implications can lead to counterintuitive outcomes
  • Example: Lying to protect someone can have unintended consequences

Second Formulation: Treating Humanity as Ends

• Principle: "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."
• Definitions
  • "Mere means": Using only for personal benefit without regard for the other's interests
  • "Ends-in-themselves": Recognizing humanity and autonomy

Using People

• Permissible Use: As means, not mere means
  • With mutual agreement and recognition of humanity
• Autonomy Importance
  • Humans can set goals and make free decisions
  • Absolute moral worth: Shouldn't be manipulated or deceived
  • Example: Deception robs autonomy

Kant’s Argument

• Rational application of categorical imperative leads to universal moral truth
• No need for divine intervention

Conclusion

• Kantian ethics vs. Utilitarianism (preview)

Production Credits

• Produced in association with PBS Digital Studios
• Filming and graphics by Thought Cafe

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