The greatest strength of Kant's ethics is his insistence on universalizing human axioms or rules in order to arrive at justifiable principles. Kant demands that we transcend self-interest and use human reason to act for all people in all places. Wants, personal preference, and emotion are not morally relevant to Kant. What is important and necessary is to use human reason in making ethical decisions. Kant lays the groundwork for addressing the question of universal rights granted by human beings in opposition to those rights endowed by their creator.
Develop an example of a universal maxim that we as citizens in a democratic republic ought to see rea-lized in our own country. Choose something that is not already established in the Constitution such as free speech, freedom to worship, freedom from unwarranted search and seizure, etc.
What role does human reason play in this maxim?
How is this universal maxim consistent with Kant's categorical imperatives? Pick one of the three formulations for comparison.
How likely is it that this universal maxim will be adopted? Why or why not?
Give a personal example of your universal maxim.
Be sure to include two or more references with proper citation with your essay.
4 pages.
Kants Ethics
