Question

What are the core differences between the notion of "Utility" and the Categorical Imperative? Is it more than just consequences vs duty?

Answer 1

Kant’s ethics is guided by the fundamental principle called Categorical Imperative according to which; irrespective i.e. without any regard to the consequences we should do what is morally right i.e. perform our duty. For example, we should pay our taxes irrespective of the fact that we lose our money that we may need. While according to Jeremy Bentham’s principle of utilitarianism, an act is considered “just” if it generates the most happiness and the least pain for the greatest number of people affected directly or indirectly by that action. Thus it is more than just consequences vs duty as it firmly establishes what is morally right and what is wrong in any situation based on universal laws.