Religious Studies A-Level
Categorical Imperative
What Categorical Imperative means in Religious Studies A-Level, as defined for Pearson Edexcel.
Definition of Categorical Imperative
Kant’s core requirement that moral maxims must be universalizable and treat humanity as an end in itself.
Topics that use Categorical Imperative
- Application of ethical theories to issues of importance: War and peace, and Sexual ethics (Pearson Edexcel A-Level)
Related terms
Using Categorical Imperative in the exam
Definition questions usually carry one or two marks, and examiners look for the precise wording. Write the definition from memory, check it against the version above, and then use the term in a longer answer on the same topic so it sticks.
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