Understanding Kantian Ethics Quiz

Who was Immanuel Kant?

• A 19th-century French scientist

• An 18th-century German philosopher

• A 17th-century British poet

• A 20th-century American novelist

What is the central concept in Kantian ethics that is considered good in itself?

• Happiness

• Good will

• Wealth

• Success

According to Kant, how are moral truths discovered?

• Through personal feelings

• By following religious texts

• By reason alone

• By observing consequences

In Kantian ethics, what determines the rightness or wrongness of an action?

• The outcome of the action

• The intention to gain reward

• Whether it fulfils a moral duty

• The popularity of the action

Which of the following best describes a 'categorical imperative'?

• A command that applies only if you want a certain result

• A suggestion for moral behaviour

• An absolute command that applies to all, at all times

• A law passed by the government

What is a 'maxim' in the context of Kantian ethics?

• The outcome of an action

• The principle behind your action

• A type of punishment

• A religious commandment

Which of the following is NOT a feature of Kant’s deontological ethics?

• Focus on duty

• Importance of consequences

• Universal moral laws

• Use of reason

What is the first formulation of the Categorical Imperative called?

• Formula of Good Will

• Formula of Universal Law

• Formula of Happiness

• Formula of Consequences

According to the Formula of Universal Law, what should you ask about your maxim?

• Will it make me happy?

• Could everyone follow this maxim without contradiction?

• Is it legal in my country?

• Will it benefit my friends?

If a maxim leads to contradiction when universalised, what does Kant say about it?

• It is moral

• It is immoral

• It is irrelevant

• It is legal