categorical imperative

USAGE SUMMARY

"categorical imperative" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It refers to a moral principle that is binding in all circumstances and applies to all individuals, regardless of their personal preferences or desires. One example of using this phrase in a sentence could be: "According to Kant's philosophy, the categorical imperative states that we must always act in a way that we would want others to act towards us."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"The Categorical Imperative Revisited: Implications of Categorization as a Theoretical Tool". Sivan, Ezra Zuckerman.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Interestingness is the categorical imperative of Sehgal's world.

The New Yorker

The categorical imperative of her political theory might be phrased: Thou shalt not be a shlemihl.

The New Yorker

We spent hours discussing subjects like religion, race relations and the categorical imperative.

The Guardian - Books

Yours is a case that turns the categorical imperative on its head.

The New York Times - Magazine

It wasn't a lifestyle choice, it was a categorical imperative, to make the world less indecent.

The Guardian - Opinion

The test is easier to remember and employ than Kant's Categorical Imperative".

The New York Times

"That's not what I meant". Interestingness is the categorical imperative of Sehgal's world.

The New Yorker

Morality for him is more like a useful coordinating device than a categorical imperative.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

The California initiative flunks even the categorical-imperative test.

The New Yorker

Were we to apply the test of the categorical imperative -- what if everyone were to do it?

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "categorical imperative", ensure you are referring to a principle that applies universally and unconditionally, as per Kant's philosophy. Avoid using it for situations where the obligation is conditional or subjective.

Common error

A common mistake is to use "categorical imperative" to describe any strong personal belief or preference. Remember that it specifically refers to a universal moral law discoverable through reason, not just a deeply held conviction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "categorical imperative" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It refers to a central concept in Immanuel Kant's moral philosophy, representing a universal and unconditional moral obligation. Ludwig AI's analysis and examples from Ludwig confirm its usage in philosophical and ethical discussions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

33%

News & Media

51%

Science

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The "categorical imperative", a key concept in Kantian ethics, represents a universal and unconditional moral obligation derived from reason. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and widely used, especially in academic, news, and scientific contexts. While commonly applied in discussions of morality and ethics, it's crucial to distinguish it from subjective beliefs or conditional obligations. For related expressions, consider "moral imperative" or "ethical obligation". When using this phrase, ensure alignment with its precise philosophical meaning to avoid misapplication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

moral imperative

Focuses specifically on the ethical or moral aspect of the obligation, rather than the broader philosophical concept.

ethical obligation

Highlights the binding nature of the ethical duty, often within a specific framework or profession.

unconditional command

Emphasizes the absolute and unrestricted nature of the directive, removing any potential exceptions or conditions.

absolute duty

Stresses the non-negotiable requirement to fulfill the obligation, leaving no room for personal preferences or excuses.

fundamental principle

Puts the focus on the foundational nature of the rule or guideline.

moral law

Suggests a broader, more universal application of the ethical principle, akin to a natural or divine law.

supreme norm

Indicates that the rule or standard takes precedence over all others, representing the highest level of ethical consideration.

inescapable necessity

Highlights the unavoidable and compelling nature of the requirement, emphasizing the lack of alternatives.

binding principle

Emphasizes the legally or morally coercive power of a tenet.

universal law

Highlights the universality, applicable to all people in all contexts

FAQs

What is the meaning of "categorical imperative"?

The "categorical imperative" refers to a concept in Kantian ethics that describes a moral obligation derived from pure reason, which is binding regardless of personal desires or consequences.

How does the "categorical imperative" differ from a hypothetical imperative?

A hypothetical imperative is a command that depends on a person's desires or goals, while the "categorical imperative" is unconditional and applies to everyone, regardless of their personal inclinations.

Can you provide examples of actions that align with the "categorical imperative"?

Examples include not lying, keeping promises, and treating others as ends in themselves, reflecting actions that could be universalized without contradiction.

What are some alternative phrases to "categorical imperative" that I can use?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "moral imperative", "ethical obligation", or "unconditional command" to convey similar ideas.