Question

Kant introduces the humanity principle (Act in such a way that you treat humanity, whether in your own person or the person of another, always as an end in itself, and never merely as a means) as another formulation of the categorical imperative. This principle, he argues, rests on the dignity of human beings (he argues that human beings are “…objects of respect.” – Kant, p. 36.). Why are human beings, according to Kant, ‘objects of respect’? How does this position follow naturally (as Kant argues it does) from the first formulation of the categorical imperative?

I know this isn't posted in a philosophy section, but apparently there isn't one anymore. Help would be greatly appreciated.

Answer 1

Kant believed that all the human beings in the world are rational, so they should be respected. Kant takes us from his first imperative which states that act in a way that it becomes the maxim and the world or other people follow that. If we look closely in the Bible we will find a similar statement, do unto others what you expect them to do for you. This sets the theme of respect that we need to respect others in order to be respected. Kant wanted people to treat others equally despite their race, color, class etc. He further insists that this respect is not only appropriate but also moral and unconditional.