What is the difference between a hypothetical and a categorical imperative? Provide an example for each.

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A categorical imperative is a moral law that should not be broken, but a hypothetical imperative is founded on the intended outcome. Kant believes that the categorical imperative is the only legitimate basis for moral action. A hypothetical imperative is dependent on a specific condition of fulfillment.

For example, if one wants to lose weight, then one should diet and exercise. This is a hypothetical imperative because the condition of losing weight is dependent on the person’s own goals and desires. On the other hand, the categorical imperative is an unconditional command or principle. For instance, the categorical imperative holds that everybody should not lie; this is a categorical imperative because it applies to everyone without exception.

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Academic.Tips. (2023, March 25). What is the difference between a hypothetical and a categorical imperative? Provide an example for each. https://academic.tips/question/what-is-the-difference-between-a-hypothetical-and-a-categorical-imperative-provide-an-example-for-each/

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Academic.Tips. 2023. "What is the difference between a hypothetical and a categorical imperative? Provide an example for each." March 25, 2023. https://academic.tips/question/what-is-the-difference-between-a-hypothetical-and-a-categorical-imperative-provide-an-example-for-each/.

1. Academic.Tips. "What is the difference between a hypothetical and a categorical imperative? Provide an example for each." March 25, 2023. https://academic.tips/question/what-is-the-difference-between-a-hypothetical-and-a-categorical-imperative-provide-an-example-for-each/.

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Academic.Tips. "What is the difference between a hypothetical and a categorical imperative? Provide an example for each." March 25, 2023. https://academic.tips/question/what-is-the-difference-between-a-hypothetical-and-a-categorical-imperative-provide-an-example-for-each/.

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"What is the difference between a hypothetical and a categorical imperative? Provide an example for each." Academic.Tips, 25 Mar. 2023, academic.tips/question/what-is-the-difference-between-a-hypothetical-and-a-categorical-imperative-provide-an-example-for-each/.

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