Hypothetical vs. Categorical Imperatives: Detail
Kant distinguishes hypothetical imperatives (if you desire X, do Y) from categorical imperatives (do Y, period). Hypothetical imperatives remain conditional on desires; categorical imperatives bind absolutely.
Real World
A careers adviser saying 'if you want a high salary, study medicine' issues a hypothetical imperative; Kant's 'do not exploit your patients' is categorical — it binds the same doctor regardless of whether exploitation would be profitable.
Exam Focus
Use the word 'conditional' when defining hypothetical imperatives and 'unconditional' for categorical — these terms signal precise understanding to examiners.
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