As a deontological or duty-based theory, Kantianism focuses on intent. If the intent behind an action is morally praiseworthy and falls within the categorical imperative, it must be ethical. The categorical imperative is the main element of Kantianism and states that we must act as if it were a universal law. This is similar to the golden rule of “treat others as you wish to be treated” and is one way to determine whether an act is morally praiseworthy. Kantian ethics is different from utilitarianism in that happiness is not a thing