I ought never to act except in such a way that I could…
“I ought never to act except in such a way that I could also will that my maxim should become a universal law.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Act only according to maxims you would will to become universal laws.
In simple terms: Act as if your actions should be universal rules.
Key Takeaway
Follow universal ethical principles.
Themes
ethics
universalism
maxim
Mood
thoughtful
principled
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- legal decisions
- business policies
- personal conduct
Key Concepts
deontology
moral philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- What maxims can you universalize?
- When might exceptions be justified?
A Different Perspective
May be too rigid for complex situations.