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The Formula Of Humanity In Kant's Moral Theory

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ID: 300100796 Kantian Deontology is characterized by the view that persons that are rational moral agents have equal value as well as equal worth. This moral theory has four key themes including dignity, autonomy, rationality, and morality. Additionally, the formula of humanity and the formula of universal law are taken into account when making moral decisions; these formulas are a part of the categorical imperative. Kant developed this moral theory as a way to evaluate the motivation for a given action. This theory has many advantageous features that are a result of Kant 's focus on the above mentioned themes. However, these themes can also lead the theory to be restrictive and limiting especially in regards to what Kant would consider non-rational persons. Overall, Kantian deontology although, desirable for various reasons it does not protect segments of persons, this allows for immoral action towards those agents. Firstly, the aforementioned themes in this theory are dignity, autonomy, rationality, and morality. Dignity is considered an intrinsic value, in other words, dignity has …show more content…
The formula of humanity is treating people with dignity and autonomy and not as a mere means, which devalues them to the status of a thing. This formula 's main duty is a negative one, to not interfere in situations where an agent can exercise agency. In addition, a person requires positive rights – education, security, healthcare, etc; the ability to be autonomous. The formula of universal law basically states that we can evaluate the correctness of a person 's actions by what other rational agents would do in the same situation. At this stage of the moral theory a maxim is determined; it puts into focus what a person seeks, how they plan to achieve it, and the realization of an end. Both of these formula 's main goal is to determine how we treat rational

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