"There is only one categorical imperative, and it is this: Act only according to that maxim whereby you can at the same time will that it should become a universal law." From this formulation of the categorical imperative, Kant derived another, which states,
A) "Treat humanity, whether in your own person or the person of any other, never merely as a means, but also always as an end in themselves."
B) "Treat reason, as the fundamental principle of action, always as a guide."
C) "Act only according to that maxim whereby you can at the same time will that it should agree with your inclinations."
D) "Therefore the universal law of nature is, the existence of things so far as it is determined by universal law."
E) "Serve the will as the objective ground of its self-determination, and all such relative ends can be grounds only for hypothetical imperatives."

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This choice correctly identifies and quotes the second formulation of the categorical imperative that Kant derived from his original formulation. The quote in option A emphasizes the importance of treating humanity as an end in itself and not merely as a means to an end. Option B mentions reason, but it is not a formulation of the categorical imperative. Option C focuses on personal inclinations, which are not relevant to the universalization of a maxim. Option D refers to a law of nature, which is not the same as Kant's ethical framework. Option E introduces the concept of self-determination, which is not directly tied to the categorical imperative.

"There Is Only One Categorical Imperative, and It Is This