Notes on Kant's Philosophy

Introduction to Immanuel Kant

Kant is a significant figure in modern philosophy, focusing on moral principles.
Born in Königsberg, excelled in academics from a young age, became a lecturer.
Published critical works:
- Critique of Pure Reason (57 years old, major work in modern philosophy)
- Groundwork for the Metaphysics of Morals (focus of the course)

Categorical Duty: Kant emphasizes the importance of respecting the dignity of all persons.
Rejection of Utilitarianism: Kant believes utilitarian approaches fail to acknowledge individual dignity.
- Respecting individuals means not using them merely as means to an end.

Rational Beings: The inherent dignity of individuals comes from our capacity for reason, not self-ownership.
Capacity for Freedom: Kant describes freedom as autonomy—acting according to self-given laws rather than merely following desires or inclinations.

Unlike animals driven by appetites, humans can act based on reason.
Concept of Freedom:
- True freedom is not simply doing what one desires but acting according to rational moral laws.

Autonomy: Acting according to a law one gives oneself (self-governance).
Heteronomy: Acting according to desires or inclinations not chosen by oneself.
Freedom equates to autonomy, while acting based on desires diminishes one's moral agency.

Moral worth of an action is determined by the motive behind the action rather than its consequences.
Good Will: The only true good is a good will, which acts from duty, not from inclination or self-interest.
Actions done from a sense of duty possess moral worth.

Shopkeeper Example:
- Shopkeeper gives correct change motivated by self-interest has no moral worth.
Suicide vs. Murder:
- Both violate the principle of respecting humanity.

Definition: A command to act in accordance with universal moral law.
Formulations:
1. Formula of Universal Law: Act only on those maxims that can be universalized.
  - Example: Making false promises would undermine the practice of promise-keeping.
2. Formula of Humanity as an End: Treat humanity always as an end, never merely as a means.
Universal Respect: Respect arises from the universal rational capacity of individuals, which goes beyond personal interests.

Respect is not contingent on individual characteristics but is inherent due to rationality.
Violating dignity through actions like murdering or suicide undermines the shared rationality of humanity.

Students questioned the objectivity of moral law and potential conflicts between personal motivations and moral duty.
Responses clarified that moral actions maintain worth when pursued from a sense of duty, even while acknowledging personal inclinations.

Kant's philosophy posits a rigorous framework for morality based on respect for human dignity and rationality.
Upcoming discussions will explore further the foundational concepts of Kant's morality.

Footnote: Engage with supplementary materials and discussions available at justiceharvard.org.

Funding for this program provided by additional support.