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According to Aristotle, the prime axiom of logic, and therefore the most self- evident thing in the world, is the law of non- contradiction: Something cannot both be and not be the same thing at the same time in the same way. He acknowledges that there are those who perversely deny it, but even as they deny its formulation, it is intrinsic to their own reasoning. He recommends showing the absurd consequences of denying it, as a proof against the sophists....According to Kant, the prime axiom of morality is the categorical imperative: never treat a rational being merely as a means, but as an end also, which can be rendered, "respect the personhood of others", or "do unto others as you would have them do unto you". It derives from our sense that our moral dignity, and hence our claim against others, resides in our capacity to make moral choices as responsible individuals. Therefore, others of similar kind have a claim against us, to be treated with respect. If God is essential a "person" in that sense, then the manner in which we are "created in His image" is in our capacity to make reasonable decisions, and to respect that image is ultimately to respect God... |
