A metaphysics of morals is therefore indispensably necessary, not merely because of a motive to speculation- for investigating the source of the practical basic principles that lie a priori in our reason- but also because morals themselves remain subject to all sorts of corruption as long as we are without that clue and supreme norm by which to appraise them correctly...
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Kant claims a metaphysics of morals is necessary to prevent corruption in ethics, providing a supreme norm to appraise moral principles correctly.
- In plain terms
- We need a clear system of moral principles to judge right and wrong and avoid ethical corruption.
- What can you take from it?
- Establish a firm moral framework to evaluate ethical decisions consistently.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What standard do you use to judge right from wrong?
- Can morality exist without a supreme norm?
Another view
Some argue morals come from culture or emotion, not abstract metaphysics.
More from Immanuel Kant
Only the descent into the hell of self-knowledge can pave the way to godliness.
Permalink to quote #13 I ought never to act except in such a way that I could also will that my maxim should become a universal law.
Permalink to quote #15 The public use of a man's reason must be free at all times, and this alone can bring enlightenment among men...
Permalink to quote #12
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