Groundwork for the Metaphysics of Morals Morality Groundwork for the Metaphysics of Morals Immanuel Kant (1724-1804) “The representation that makes the object possible rather than the object that makes the representation possible Perceptual input must be processed, i.e. recognized, or it would just be noise – "less even than a dream" or "nothing to us,"

Some Quotes: Kant's philosophy is generally designated as a system of transcendental criticism tending towards agnosticism in theology, and favoring the view that Christianity is a non-dogmatic religion. "Act only on that maxim through which you can at the same time will that it should become universal law" . “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” “Act so as to use humanity, whether in your own person or in others, always as an end, and never merely as a means.” “Moral nature is who you are when no one sees”

Some key terms : Categorical imperative – moral law as ultimately enacted by reason Hypothetical imperative - a command that applies, not unconditionally, but only under certain conditions, or given certain purposes. Assertoric – proposition stating that something is the cause, Will - the faculty of deciding, choosing, or acting. Prudence - is to exercise sound judgement in practical affairs. It is considered to be a virtue and is often associated with wisdom. Volition - an act of making a choice or decision; also : a choice or decision made the power of choosing or determining Metaphysics - is a branch of philosophy concerned with the study of "first principles“ and "being" (ontology).

Imperatives Purpose - Happiness Hypothetical – a practical necessity to obtain Categorical – objectively necessary for itself Skill – without question of good Equal worth – success Skills intended for discretionary use Morality is the choice and proper use of skills Purpose - Happiness

Prudence Worldly – the skill of a human to have influence on others Private – to unite all aims to his own enduring advantage Morality – not to the matter of action, or the result, but, The form and the principle which the action results, whatever the result, the good resides In the disposition “Happiness is the assigned ideal of the imagination, not reason”

Divine Will Is in accordance to the law by it’s nature Volition is in harmony with divine or holy will Inclination is toward the desire of sensations Interest considered as a principle of reason Taking an interest vs. acting from interest “Rational nature exists as an end in itself” “Act so that you use humanity as much in your own person as in the person of every other, always at the same time as end and never merely as means”

Nature Universal imperative of duty In accordance with the representation of laws In accordance with the principles of will That which reason recognizes as good Will in accordance with it’s nature is not necessarily obedient Agreeable, pleasing, good – for the senses not of the will Universal imperative of duty “So, act as if the maxim of your action were to become through your will A universal law of nature”