What Is the Distinction Between a Hypothetical Imperative and a Categorical

question 35

Essay

What is the distinction between a hypothetical imperative and a categorical imperative? How is this relevant to Kantian moral theory?

---

Definitions:

Utilitarianism

A moral theory that advocates for actions that maximize happiness and well-being for the greatest number of people.

Liberalism

A belief system centered on the principles of freedom, the governed's agreement, and equal treatment under the law.

Libertarianism

A political philosophy that emphasizes freedom, autonomy, and voluntary association.

Diminishing Marginal Utility

An economic theory suggesting that the utility or satisfaction derived from consuming more of a good decreases with each subsequent unit.