A philosophical evaluation of Immanuel Kant’s categorical imperative: The panacea to immoral politics in Nigerian public sector

Abstract

The promotion of ethics in the public sector is one of the positive steps in ensuring excellent performance in governance. This paper discusses the challenges of promoting ethical behavior in Nigerian public sector through the lens Immanuel Kant’s Categorical Imperative. Using data generated from secondary sources and descriptive analysis, it has been realized that uptake of
ethics in the public sector within Nigerian context has been very minimal. The paper argues neglect of the cherished cultural heritage in the dos and don’ts of Nigerians incapacitate their ability to manage their social system effectively. This perceived monumental flaw metamorphosed into different dysfunctional social crises that undermine peaceful coexistence and development of Nigerians. This has been attributed to factors such as lack of commitment on the part of government to continue to situate stringent measure on ethical violations into the mainstream of government institutions, poor adherence to ethical standards by public officers, absence of rules and regulations that could enhance good ethics and performance in the public sector, poor political leadership and corruption. In the light of the above findings, the paper concluded by advocating the philosophical formulation for Nigerian peaceful coexistence, self reliance, self-sustenance and development attainment through cultural norms and values were proffered for a mass education campaign on the extent and cost of corruption and unethical
behavior.