ABSTRACT
This chapter considers the main divisions of these imperatives, and the general character of their justification. Here we have the assistance of a very great philosopher, for the most celebrated division of imperatives is Immanuel Kant's where he distinguished categorical imperatives from hypothetical ones. An imperative is at least a command, and it is surely unnecessary to suppose that a statement to the effect that, if a certain end is desired certain means are essential to its attainment, is a command at all. The consequence depends upon argument, not upon definition; and the purpose of the chapter has been to supply an argument. On the other hand, when we consider, not our own happiness only, but the happiness of other creatures, it is utterly monstrous to deny that there are hedonic imperatives enjoining happiness for happiness' sake. The chapter concludes by considering a possible objection.
