Applying the second formulation of the categorical imperative to the act of lying to a friend on important matters would show that the action is impermissible because:
A)performing the action would treat the friend as a means to an end.
B)performing the action would treat the friend as an end,not as a means.
C)the action cannot be performed.
D)the action leads to impermissible consequences.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The second formulation of the categorical imperative states that we should never treat people as mere means to our ends, but always as ends in themselves. Lying to a friend on important matters would involve using them as a means to our own ends, and thus would violate this principle. Therefore, the action is impermissible.

Applying the Second Formulation of the Categorical Imperative to the Act