Assignment #2

In this assignment you are going to present Kantian arguments against

the taking of recreational drugs that are currently illegal in the U.S., such as heroin, cocaine, and ecstasy.

Use the following maxim: In order to maximize my pleasure, I will take recreational drugs whenever I feel like it.

1.Explain why this maxim is self-defeating, i.e.could not be imagined as a universal law for all rational beings. This should include what a world would look like in which all rational beings followed the maxim and why you could not achieve the purpose or end of the maxim in such a world.

2.Explain why following this maxim (i.e. taking recreational drugs) would interfere with your fulfilling imperfect duties to yourself and to other people.

3.Explain why following this maxim fails to treat yourself with

respect.

4.Explain why following this maxim would likely lead you to fail

to treat other people with respect.

As usual, papers are to be typed, standard font, double-spaced and run @1,000 wds. (@4 pp.). Do not present an introduction. Answer each question separately and number your answers appropriately.