The means-ends principle maintains that:
A) we must always behave toward people to maximize their happiness
B) we must always treat people as ends in themselves, never merely as a means
C) we must never treat people as a means
D) we must treat people according to their wishes

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The means-ends principle, also known as Kant's categorical imperative, states that we must always treat people as ends in themselves, never merely as a means. This means that we should respect people's dignity and autonomy, and not use them to achieve our own goals without their consent or against their will. This principle is considered a fundamental principle of ethics by many philosophers and is the basis for human rights and respect for persons. A, C, and D are incorrect because they either oversimplify or misunderstand the principle.

The Means-Ends Principle Maintains That