The Concept of Duty

Kant investigates the idea of “duty” because it forms the foundation of his moral philosophy, providing a basis for determining the moral worth of actions independent of consequences or personal inclinations. For Kant, duty is central because:

1. Universal Moral Law: Duty is rooted in the concept of following principles that can be universally applied without contradiction. It provides a standard for determining the morality of actions that transcends individual preferences or situational outcomes.
2. Moral Autonomy: Acting from duty, according to Kant, reflects the exercise of moral autonomy—where individuals freely choose to adhere to moral principles derived from reason alone, rather than from external influences or desires.
3. Respect for Rational Beings: Duty involves recognizing and respecting the inherent worth and dignity of rational beings, treating them not merely as means to an end but as ends in themselves…

Kant investigates the idea of “duty” because it forms the foundation of his moral philosophy, providing a basis for determining the moral worth of actions independent of consequences or personal inclinations. For Kant, duty is central because:

1. Universal Moral Law: Duty is rooted in the concept of following principles that can be universally applied without contradiction. It provides a standard for determining the morality of actions that transcends individual preferences or situational outcomes.
2. Moral Autonomy: Acting from duty, according to Kant, reflects the exercise of moral autonomy—where individuals freely choose to adhere to moral principles derived from reason alone, rather than from external influences or desires.
3. Respect for Rational Beings: Duty involves recognizing and respecting the inherent worth and dignity of rational beings, treating them not merely as means to an end but as ends in themselves…

Kant investigates the idea of “duty” because it forms the foundation of his moral philosophy, providing a basis for determining the moral worth of actions independent of consequences or personal inclinations. For Kant, duty is central because:

1. Universal Moral Law: Duty is rooted in the concept of following principles that can be universally applied without contradiction. It provides a standard for determining the morality of actions that transcends individual preferences or situational outcomes.
2. Moral Autonomy: Acting from duty, according to Kant, reflects the exercise of moral autonomy—where individuals freely choose to adhere to moral principles derived from reason alone,