PHI 2397 Lecture Notes - Lecture 5: Adolf Eichmann, Categorical Imperative, Universalizability
1 Oct 2016
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Document Summary
Unlike utilitarian-consequentialist theories of ethics, the end does not justify that means in principle-based theory of ethics. Some actions are simply intrinsically wrong, and we ought not perform them even in pursuit of the most noble or outstanding consequences. The three main theses: an action has moral worth if it done for the sake of duty. Duty: an action is morally correct if its maxim can be willed as universal law. Universalizability: we should always treat humanity, whether in ourselves or other people, as an end in itself and never merely as means to an end. Acting for the sake of duty: acting without self-interest, acting without concern for consequences, acting without inclination and feeling. We should not be side-tracked by our feelings and emotions. We should act our of love or compassion. Two conceptions of duty: duty as following order.
