Kant and Autonomy

Abstract: It is difficult to address any study of ethical behavior without addressing the work of Immanuel Kant. He addresses morality through the interpretation of autonomy. In The Grounding for the Metaphysics of Morals, Kant defines the concept he calls 'categorical imperative'. He sets his thoughts within the parameters of the rights and duties inherent in the autonomy of man. This 8 page paper argues that autonomy is the utilization of the will inherent in the nature of the animal while free choice is the utilization of the a priori 'soul' that the religionists would say governs the higher thoughts of man in his relation to God. In this manner, Kant is in agreement with Stanley Jaki's representation of scientific history and philosophical rationality in the book, Angels, Apes, and Men. Bibliography lists 5 sources.

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Subcatagory: Ethics

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