Why We Do What We Do

In Kant’s Groundwork of Metaphysics of Morals, Section 2, after discussing the reasons behind will, he brings up two imperatives: Hypothetical Imperative and the Categorical Imperative. These imperatives are guidelines, or instructions in life.

The Hypothetical Imperative, like its namesake, is dependent on the hypothetical situation. The Hypothetical Imperative tells us the standard means to achieve something. Once an objective or goal is set, it is clear what needs to be done for that specific goal to be achieved. For example, in order to do well in school, one must study hard. It is based on a situation, and fairly straightforward.

The Categorical Imperative on the other hand, is more of a universal law. It tells us what we should be doing, regardless of what our goals and desires are. Unlike the Hypothetical Imperative, the Categorical Imperative does not include circumstantial considerations. It is a rule or a law that applies to everyone. Kant describes the Categorical Imperative as that one should act only in such a way that you could want the motivating principle of your action to become a universal law of nature. Examples of the Categorical Imperative would be, not to commit suicide, or not to steal.

Some of the differences between the Categorical Imperative and the Hypothetical Imperative include the reasoning behind why people act the way they do. For the Hypothetical Imperative, people follow certain rules or guidelines because they know that it will help them achieve their respective objectives, and is entirely circumstantial. The Categorical Imperative comes into play when people act a certain way with no real reason for doing so (not stealing etc.) simply because it is the universal law. The Categorical Imperative is presupposed by experience, or a priori, and not by circumstances. Another difference is morality. The Categorical Imperative is centered around morality, whereas the Hypothetical Imperative is just a means to achieve a goal. If a certain goal does not apply to another person, it gives that other person no reason to follow that particular hypothetical imperative. The Categorical Imperative is something everyone follows.