Study Guide:
Onora O'Neill - A Simplified Account of Kant's Ethics
1. Explain the version of Kant's Categorical Imperative known as the Formula
of the End in Itself.
2. As Kant uses the term, what is a maxim?
3. What is it to use someone as a mere means?
4. Explain the difference between using someone as a means and using
someone as a mere means.
5. What are some examples of actions that use others as mere means?
6. What is it to treat someone as an end in him or herself?
7. In discussing Utilitarianism we worried that the consequences of some
of our actions could be difficult to determine. How does the Kantian theory
work in similar situations?
8. Is Kantian ethics focused more on intentions or on consequences?
9. Could there be situations in which a Utilitarian might find it justifiable
to use a person as a mere means? Could a Kantian find this justifiable?
10. What is the source of our moral status for Utilitarians and Kantians?
Or, why do human beings matter/What is the value of human life (on each view)?
11. According to O'Neill, is it possible that a society of Kantians might
produce a world with less overall happiness than a society of Utilitarians?