What ethical principle is associated with Immanuel Kant's idea that the truth should always be told?

The correct answer relates to Immanuel Kant’s ethical framework known as the categorical imperative, which underscores the importance of moral duty and universal principles. According to Kant, one should act according to maxims that could be universally applicable. This means that actions, such as telling the truth, must be evaluated based on whether they could be accepted as a universal law applicable to everyone at all times.

Kant believed that truth-telling is a moral obligation that should not be compromised by consequences or personal interests. Consequently, the categorical imperative insists that individuals must treat others with respect and honesty, affirming that telling the truth is an ethical requirement, regardless of the potential outcomes.

Utilitarianism, on the other hand, focuses on the consequences of actions and their ability to maximize overall happiness, rather than adhering strictly to the truth. Virtue ethics emphasizes the character traits that a moral individual should develop, rather than specifying absolute duties like Kant's approach. Moral relativism suggests that ethical standards can vary based on cultural or individual circumstances, which contrasts with Kant's firm stance on the absoluteness of truth-telling.