There is, therefore, only one categorical imperative. It is: Act only according to that maxim by which you can at the same time will that it should become a universal law.
¶ Foundations of the Metaphysics of Morals, Sec. 2 (1785)
trans. Lewis W. Beck (1969) Alternate translations:
- I ought never to act except in such a way that I could also will that my maxim should become a universal law.
- Act only on that maxim which you can at the same time will that it should become a universal law.
- Act as if the maxim of thy action were to become by thy will a universal law of nature.
- So act that your principle of action might safely be made a law for the whole world.
- May you live your life as if the maxim of your actions were to become universal law.
- Live your life as though your every act were to become a universal law.
- Do not feel forced to act, as you're only willing to act according to your own universal laws. And that's good. For only willful acts are universal. And that's your maxim.
