PHIL-386 Lecture Notes - Lecture 4: Categorical Imperative, Universalizability, Kantian Ethics
7 May 2020
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Kant"s supreme moral principle is the categorical imperative. We use it to test our proposed actions to see if they are morally permissible: the categorical imperative (2 main formulations), first formulation of the categorical imperative: universalization formulation. "act only in accordance with the maxim through which you can at the same time will that it become a universal law . We test the rationality of the maxim informing it, not the consequences, and see if it is universalizable without a contradiction. A contradiction would mean it is not logical (i. e. rational) or that you could not rationally will a world where everyone acted this way. Maxim =the general rule , law, or principle motivating our action. Must include deepest, most honest reason, for proposed action. You"re thinking about lying about your credentials on a resume in hopes it will make you a better candidate for a job you want.
