Law Quote by Immanuel Kant
“Act only according to that maxim whereby you can at the same time will that it should become a universal law.”
About This Quote
Source Philosophy: Groundwork of the Metaphysics of Morals, 1785
Act only if you can will your action to become a universal law, ensuring moral consistency.
In simple terms: Act only if it could be a universal rule.
Key Takeaway
Follow universal moral law.
Themes
ethics
universalism
duty
Mood
serious
reflective
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- lawmaking
- personal decisions
- leadership
Key Concepts
deontology
categorical imperative
Questions to Reflect On
- Can you universalize this action?
- What conflicts arise?
A Different Perspective
Hard to apply in complex, conflicting situations.
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