DOI: 10.46726/H.2026.3.18
The golden rule of morality and Kant's categorical imperative are examined in their relationship as milestones of historical progress in the field of moral consciousness in general and ethical theory in particular. The principle of retaliation is considered as a form of primitive consciousness, while the principle of reciprocity is considered as an initial form of morality. Contradictory assessments of the golden rule of morality made by a number of contemporary philosophers are presented. As a result of their analysis, it is proved that the golden rule of morality is historically and logically the first level of moral consciousness, acting as the “arithmetic” of moral practice and ethical theory. The ethical positions of N.F. Fedorov and A. Schweitzer are analyzed in relation to the content of the categorical imperative. The conclusion is substantiated that the categorical imperative remains the optimal form of expressing the essence of morality as a form and means of harmonizing the interests of all members of any community.
For citation: Yerofeeva K.L. Arithmetic and algebra of morality (on the golden rule of morality and Kant's categorical imperative), Ivanovo State University Bulletin. Series: Humanities, 2026, iss 3, pp. 166—173.