To begin with, imperativeness is the foundation upon which morality rests. Being one of its properties along with normativity and appraisal, it obliges each member of the society to categorically fulfill certain rules of behavior.
Is imperative a property, form or law?
The famous philosopher Immanuel Kant will help answer this question . In his main work, he derives several meanings of this concept. Firstly, by imperative, he means one of the properties of morality. It is immanent in nature, that is, located within itself. Secondly, imperativeness is the form by which the precepts of morality are expressed and its essence is realized. Third, imperative is the law that governs morality. It has such properties as objectivity, commitment and comprehensiveness. Each of these definitions reflects the essence of the phenomenon under study equally, but from different angles. Like any object, imperative is multifaceted, so Kant distinguishes 2 of its types - categorical and hypothetical. Of particular importance is the first. It forbids people to commit immoral acts by virtue of the fact that they can become an example for universal behavior. And this will lead to the complete decomposition of society.
The role of imperative in society
Imperativeness is the key to the interaction of each individual and society. It serves humanity for many years and contributes to its development. In addition to morality, laws are the main regulator of public life. Hence the imperativeness of law, without which it could not exist. In this case, it affects the subjects of legal relations and does not allow deviations from prescriptions and alternative. It is thanks to her that the imperious will of the state is expressed. Thus, imperativeness is inalienable from individual freedom, because with its help the individual can choose moral ways to achieve goals that are consistent with public interests.