Kantian Ethics

The Categorical Imperative:

- Immanuel Kant wanted to create a philosophical system which didn't require God. Introduced the Three formulations of the Categorical Imperative:

"Act only according to that maxim by which you can at the same time wish that it should become a universal law." -maxim = the action itself
"Act so to treat humanity, whether in your own person or in that of another, at all times also as an end, and not only as a means."
"Act as one of the lawmakers in the kingdom of ends." -the kingdom of ends is an imagined place where everyone is treated with respect.

First formulation: It focuses on the action itself rather than the outcome. In the case of zoos, the action is placing animals in cages or enclosures, which restricts their freedom. Even if the outcomes (e.g., education or conservation) are positive, the action of confining animals cannot be universalised without moral issues arising.

Second formulation: Some zoos, especially those that focus on animal welfare, conservation, and education, treat animals as ends in themselves. They prioritise the well-being of the animals, provide them with spacious and naturalistic habitats, and ensure that their needs are met. These zoos do not use animals merely as tools for entertainment or profit; they aim to respect the animals' dignity. However, many zoos do not fully respect the second formulation. Zoos that focus on profit, entertainment, or displaying animals in artificial conditions often treat animals as mere means to provide amusement. If animals are kept in small enclosures, forced to perform tricks, or are not provided with adequate care and respect for their rights, they are being used merely as tools for human benefit.

Third formulation: In the "kingdom of ends" everyone is treated with respect. Most zoos keep animals in captivity for extended periods of time and restrict them from their natural environment. These limitations prevent zoos from meeting the moral standards for this formulation.

Strengths: Focuses on moral duties rather than outcomes, preventing justification for unethical practices based on what is right and wrong.

Weaknesses: Animals are not rational beings, which limits how directly Kant's ethics apply to their treatment. May be rejecting all zoos even if they serve critical conservation purposes.