"CATEGORICAL IMPERATIVE" OF I. KANT AS A UNIVERSAL PHILOSOPHICAL-LEGAL PARADIGM

Abstract

This study is carried out by conceptualization of the phenomenon of "categorical imperative" on the basis of correlation of universal imperatives and modern moral-ethical attitudes. The key task of the study is to determine the place and role of classical philosophical-legal paradigm of I. Kant in terms of development of contemporary international legal institutions. The author uses historical-philosophical, cultural and philosophical-legal approaches, ontological and hermeneutic methods, cultural-historical and comparative principles. In the course of history the humanity has already created many legal systems and practices, as well as the universal teachings of morality which radically changed society, influenced on the development of human civilization, defined the nature of contemporary international relations. The classical philosophers, in particular I. Kant, also searched the possibility of creating the best model of fair society, whose core is morality. However, today's "society of benefits and entertainment", leaves no place for a moral person who honors tradition, family, and Homeland. It is shown that only moral personality is capable to think "pure law" as metaphysical dominating. Pure law as a universal model captures the essence of the greater good, which defines the universal order of things in nature and society. And this governing principle extrapolated into the realm of practical (public, international) law.