Imagine a shopkeeper who is honest because being honest is good for business. When the shopkeeper refrains from cheating a customer, Kant would say this action
A) was wrong because its motive was impure.
B) was in accordance with duty, but not done from duty.
C) displayed a high level of moral worth.
D) shows that he was following the categorical imperative.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Kant distinguishes between actions that are done in accordance with duty and those done from duty. An action done in accordance with duty is performed because it aligns with what duty requires, but not necessarily for the sake of duty itself. In this case, the shopkeeper acts honestly not because it's inherently the right thing to do (from duty), but because it benefits his business (in accordance with duty). Therefore, while the action is correct, it lacks moral worth in Kant's view because it is motivated by self-interest rather than by a commitment to duty for its own sake.

Imagine a Shopkeeper Who Is Honest Because Being Honest Is