According to Kant a maxim is a "subjective principle of volition." It is a general principle that someone acts on in making choices.

Examples of Maxims:

• I will brush my teeth after eating a meal.
• If it looks like it is going to rain, I will take an umbrella.
• If someone hurts me, I'll try to hurt them back.
• If I find I've hurt someone, I'll apologize to them.
• I will check in with my parents at least once a week.
• If there's a party that I could attend, I'll make every effort to go.
• If one of my favorite musicians comes out with a new CD, I'll try to buy it as soon as I can.
• If someone rats on me, I'll kill 'em.
• If I can get away without doing some task, I will avoid doing it.
• If I've done something wrong, I'll find a way to blame someone else.