Final answer:
The assertion that Kant advocated for treating people as a means to an end is false. His categorical imperative emphasizes treating individuals as ends in themselves and recognizing their intrinsic worth. Kantian ethics prioritizes moral duties, dignity, and respect for individual autonomy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement 'Kant argued that we should always treat people as a means to a greater end' is false. Immanuel Kant's ethical philosophy is grounded in the principle of treating individuals as ends in themselves, and never merely as a means to an end. This reflects his categorical imperative, which is a central concept in his moral philosophy. People must always be treated with dignity and respect, recognizing their inherent value as rational beings. This approach is particularly important when considering how to treat human subjects in research, suggesting they must participate voluntarily and be informed about the research to safeguard their autonomy and worth.
One of Kant's noteworthy contributions to ethical thought is the categorical imperative, which asserts that our actions should be based on maxims that could be universalized without contradiction. An action is moral only if the principle behind it can apply to everyone without resulting in an illogical or untenable situation. This imperative also underscores the unconditional value of good will. Kant stresses that good will, which entails the decision to carry out our moral duties, is the only thing with unconditional value over beneficial outcomes.
For Kant, the idea of a kingdom of ends encapsulates his vision of a society where every individual is treated with respect and dignity, supporting the view that each person's rights, choices, and autonomy should be upheld. Such considerations are essential not just in everyday personal interactions but also in more structured contexts, like research ethics.