ABSTRACT
Kant's practical philosophy culminates in the categorical imperative: "Act only on that maxim through which we can at the same time will that it should become a universal law." Kant's imperative requires the politician not to be an opportunist but conscientiously to acquaint himself with all interests affected by and all consequences of his decisions, and to weigh them up conscientiously. Kant wrote in his treatise On Perpetual Peace: "Thus true politics cannot take any step without previously having paid homage to morality." Kant could not conceive of such a democratic process. He could not have been a democrat in sense of the world, still less a Social Democrat. The crux of the matter, as with many other political problems, is the very fact that both differing and even conflicting assessments and solutions can undoubtedly be morally justified. In the years ahead when there will be less scope for action we shall have to demonstrate our political flair and flexibility.
