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Summary Of Kant's Categorical Imperative

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Many people believe you should always do what seems to be morally right, however is that always true? Maybe people have different opinions on what is morally right and wrong to do, however if you don 't do these things there is no law to state that you will get arrested or fined if you do not contribute to famine relief. Kant gives us a description on what is perfect and imperfect duties and how he feels about everything that singer has opinions on also. Kant 's distinction between perfect and imperfect duties refers to perfect duties being strict or rigorous duties.These duties such as the duty not to commit suicide and the duty not to make a lying promise. Kant refers to imperfect duties as laxer duties. These duties such as the duty to help people in need. They are still duties, but you have some choice about how to make sure these duties are done (Class notes, Module 05, Pg 18). Kant 's first formulation of Categorical Imperative by using the notion of a universal law states that you should not be two faced or treat others like you want them to treat you also known as “What is good for the goose is good for the gander” (Class notes, Module 05, Pg 2). Therefore,if you do something to someone …show more content…

Kant’s second formulation of Categorical Imperative by using the language of means and ends summed is basically do not use people. Kant states “Always treat people as ends in themselves and never merely as a means to an end.” which basically means let people make their own informed decisions. Do not use others to get what you want. Each persons has the right to make rational informed decisions about our own life (Class notes, Module 05, Pg 2). This second formulation means do not take advantage of people or just become friends with them because you need something. For example people that like to just be friends with others just to get a job somewhere because, their friend works there and they have a better chance at getting the job if their friend puts in a “good

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