Final answer:
An imperative is a type of sentence that gives a command or instruction, and in Kant's philosophy, it refers specifically to categorical imperatives, which are universal moral laws.
Step-by-step explanation:
An imperative is a type of sentence that gives a command or instruction. It is not a statement of fact, philosophical principle, or an ethical dilemma. The Enlightenment philosopher Immanuel Kant introduced the concept of categorical and hypothetical imperatives as part of his philosophical work, emphasizing that categorical imperatives are universal moral laws that apply to all rational beings, regardless of their desires or goals. These imperatives are considered to be binding duties, which makes them a key aspect of Kant's deontological ethical theory. By contrast, hypothetical imperatives serve as a means to achieve a specific end or goal and are not considered moral laws.