Lecture on Immanuel Kant and Moral Philosophy

Introduction to Immanuel Kant

• Considered the hardest philosopher in the course.
• Known for a different account of categorical duty and respecting dignity.
• Began university at 16 and became an unsalaried lecturer at 31.
• Published major works late in life, notably "Critique of Pure Reason" and "Groundwork for the Metaphysics of Morals".

Kant's Philosophy

• Rejects utilitarianism.
• Believes in the inherent dignity of individuals due to rationality, not self-ownership.
• Human beings are rational and autonomous, capable of free choice.
• Our rational capacity distinguishes us from animals.

Kant's Notion of Freedom

• Freedom is not merely the absence of obstacles but autonomy.
• Autonomy is acting according to a self-given law, not natural laws or desires.
• Opposite of autonomy is heteronomy, acting according to unchosen inclinations.

Kant's Morality

• Actions have moral worth if done from the motive of duty, not inclination or self-interest.
• Moral actions are about motives, not consequences.
• A goodwill is inherently good, regardless of outcomes.

Examples in Kant's Morality

• Shopkeeper Example: Acting rightly for self-interest lacks moral worth.
• Suicide Example: Preserving life out of duty shows morality.
• Better Business Bureau and University of Maryland Cheating Example: Actions motivated by self-interest lack moral worth.

Kant's Categorical Imperative

• Moral law is universal and stems from reason shared by all rational beings.
• Contrasts with hypothetical imperatives that are conditional and means-end based.

Formulations of Categorical Imperative

1. Formula of Universal Law
   • Act only on maxims that can be willed as universal law.
   • Example of false promise: If universalized, promise-making would fail.
2. Formula of Humanity as an End
   • Treat humanity as an end in itself, not merely as a means.
   • Respect for human dignity is integral, opposing murder and suicide.

Challenges and Clarifications

• Morality is objective, grounded in universal rational reason.
• Kant's ideas contrast with utilitarianism, emphasizing duty over consequences.
• Respect differs from love or sympathy, as it’s universal and not particular.

Conclusion

• Kant's moral philosophy is demanding but offers a structured understanding of freedom and morality.
• Encourages a deeper exploration of Kant's "Groundwork for the Metaphysics of Morals" to understand supreme moral principles.