Kantian Ethics OCR A-Level Religious Studies Ethics Revision

This resource introduces Kantian Ethics as a key normative ethical theory within the OCR A Level Religious Studies Ethics specification. It explains Kant’s deontological approach, which focuses on duty and moral rules rather than consequences. The resource outlines Kant’s belief that morality is based on reason and that moral actions must be performed out of duty, not inclination or emotion.

The resource explains the concept of the good will as the only intrinsically good thing, as it reflects a commitment to moral duty. It introduces the categorical imperative as the central principle of Kantian Ethics and explores its key formulations required by the OCR specification. These include the universalisability principle, which states that moral rules must be applicable to everyone without contradiction, and the principle of treating humanity as an end in itself, which emphasises the intrinsic value and dignity of every person.

The resource also explains Kant’s emphasis on autonomy and rational moral decision making, highlighting the importance of acting according to universal moral law. It supports students in understanding how Kantian Ethics provides an absolutist ethical framework and develops the knowledge and evaluative skills required for OCR Ethics examination responses.