Applying the second formulation of the categorical imperative to the act of lying to a friend on important matters would show that the action is impermissible because
A) performing the action would treat the friend merely as a means to an end.
B) performing the action would treat the friend as an end, not as a means.
C) the action cannot be performed.
D) the action leads to impermissible consequences.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The second formulation of the categorical imperative, as proposed by Immanuel Kant, states that we should act in such a way that we treat humanity, whether in our own person or in the person of any other, always at the same time as an end and never merely as a means to an end. Lying to a friend on important matters would involve using that friend for one's own purposes without respecting their autonomy or inherent worth, thus treating them merely as a means to an end.

Applying the Second Formulation of the Categorical Imperative to the Act