Kant’s Formula of Humanity, Essay Example

Kant’s formula for humanity states that “So act that you use humanity, whether in your own person or in the person of any other, always at the same time as an end, never merely as a means” (429). Basing on a personal opinion, this formula can be regarded from two perspectives, one being the case of “oneself” while the other touches on “others.” In the first scenario, Kant categorically implies the ability to preserve and cultivate one’s own rationality, and not just a means to get something else.

On the other hand, Kant’s point of view on “others” respects the rationality of other people and not as a means of attaining material gain. Kant’s formulations are specific on obligations. For him, obligations carry their own authority; therefore, all individuals should act in a manner that causes no harm to their own self or other humanity. In other words, Kant’s perception of ethics is centered on this formula: he urges humanity to apply a sense of obligation while interacting with their fellow human beings.

While trying to shed more light on Kant’s formula of humanity, consider an example of a job applicant who has not attained the relevant qualification. In reality and logically, such an individual does not deserve to be considered for that particular vacant position. This is because the interest of the employer is to get an employee, who will contribute significantly to the interest of the company in question. However, according to Kant, this decision is morally unethical as the employer is merely regarding the job applicant as a merely a means, but not the end to something.