Philosophy 103
Study questions: Kant's Fundamental Principles...
Second Section
1. Kant argues that some imperatives command hypothetically
and some categorically? What
exactly is the difference? In which of these categories
do moral commands fit?
2. In the second section, Kant introduces for the second time his
(first) formulation of the
Categorical Imperative (the ultimate imperative of morality).
It is often called the Formula
of Universal Law. What does this formulation command
of us? How does Kant apply it
to particular cases?
3. Kant later introduces a second formulation of the Categorical
Imperative. It is often called
the Formula of Humanity as an End in Itself. What
does this formulation command of us?
How does Kant apply it to particular cases?
4. Consider these two formulations of the Categorical Imperative
and Kant's applications of them.
Kant claims that these are the ultimate commands of
morality--all moral obligations can be
derived from them. What potential problems might
there be for these formulations? Are there
any obligations that they might miss? Are there
any situations in which they might yield the wrong
answer (that is, command you to do something that you
think is wrong)?