PHIL 1000 Lecture Notes - Lecture 15: Categorical Imperative, Deontological Ethics, Moral Agency
10 Sep 2016
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Document Summary
Kant"s moral philosophy/ethics belongs to the so=called deontological moral theories, often taken in opposition to the consequentialist moral theories (such as utilitarianism). Kant"s ethics is also known as monistic deontology because it is based on one single principle of duty the categorical imperative. Deontological ethical theories are concerned with individual rights and duties, with what ought" to be done, unlike consequentialist theories which are concerned with outcomes. Deontological moral theories are also considered objectivist moral theories. Deontological theories are concerned with the truth in morality, with how things really are. That is why, in kant"s ethics, the moral principle is objective, necessary and universal, and acts as a command and not just as a guideline. One of the most important ethical principle that originates with kant"s philosophy is the principle of autonomy (or self-governance) Deontological ethics is not concerned with happiness; but with finding the best and most adequate moral principle to guide our moral behavior at all times.
