University of California San Diego Week 12 Kants Categorical Imperative Discussion

2. KANT: RATIONAL BEINGS ARE ENDS IN THEMSELVES (Chapter 6 and Module Week # 12, Lessons #21 and 22)

Answer all parts of this prompt in the proper order.

• What does Kant mean by saying we should treat all rational beings, including ourselves, as an end in themselves, never merely as a means to an end?
• Mention one positive and one negative aspect of his moral principle.
• In your view, does Kant’s principle have something to say to the 21st century? Explain why or why not.

Video available on Kant’s theory of a “Person vs a Thing.” (Links to an external site.)

PowerPoint slide show:

Kant’s Categorical ImperativeThe video can be used as one of your outside sources. Just remember to reference it. The slide show doesn’t count as an outside source.