Overview
This lecture introduces Kant's moral philosophy, emphasizing his grounding of morality in rational will and the principle of the categorical imperative.
Kant's Approach to Morality
- Kant assumes morality exists as a human practice, not something to be proven or disproven.
- He investigates what it means to be good, establishing the "good will" as the only unconditional good.
- Traits like money, courage, or intelligence are only good if used with good will.
The Good Will
- The good will is acting for the sake of duty, not for personal gain or consequences.
- Actions are only truly moral if motivated by respect for moral law, not fear, happiness, or external rewards.
- Following orders or external commands is not moral unless you independently will it.
Morality and Rationality
- Morality is self-imposed, arising from our rational nature (ability to respond to reasons).
- Moral rules apply universally to all rational beings, not because of authority but because of logic.
The Categorical Imperative
- The categorical imperative commands actions that must be done regardless of desires or outcomes.
- First formulation: Only act according to a maxim that you can will to become a universal law.
- Moral actions must be logically consistent; you cannot will a self-contradictory maxim.
Formulations of the Categorical Imperative
- Second formulation: Always treat humanity, in yourself and others, as an end and never merely as a means.
- Respect for others' autonomy is essential; using services is not wrong as long as participation is voluntary.
- Third formulation: Act as if your maxims set universal laws; your behavior helps define societal norms.
Free Will and Moral Responsibility
- Kant's philosophy requires free will; moral law is only meaningful if self-imposed.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Good Will — The intention to act morally out of duty, regardless of outcomes.
- Categorical Imperative — A universal, unconditional moral law that one must follow, regardless of desires.
- Maxim — A principle or rule that guides individual actions.
- Ends and Means — Treating people as ends means respecting their autonomy; as means means using them only for your benefit.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review and reflect on the three formulations of the categorical imperative.
- Consider examples from daily life where you act from duty versus self-interest.