Moral actions must be motivated by duty rather than inclination from "summary" of Groundwork for the Metaphysics of Morals by Immanuel Kant
The moral worth of an action lies not in the consequences it produces or the emotions that drive it, but in the intention behind it. According to Kant, moral actions must be motivated by duty alone, rather than by inclination or personal gain. Inclinations are driven by desires and emotions, which can be unpredictable and self-serving. By contrast, duty is a rational principle that guides our actions in accordance with universal moral laws. When we act out of duty, we are motivated by a sense of moral obligation rather than by subjective feelings or preferences. This duty is derived from the categorical imperative, a universal principle that commands us to act in a way that we would want everyone else to act in similar circumstances. By following this principle, we treat others as ends in themselves rather than as means to an end, respecting their inherent worth and dignity. Inclinations, on the other hand, are based on personal desires and preferences that can vary from person to person. They are subjective and contingent, often leading us to make choices that prioritize our own happiness or satisfaction over the well-being of others. Inclinations are not reliable guides for moral action because they are influenced by external factors and changing circumstances. Duty, by contrast, is a constant and unwavering principle that guides our actions in a consistent and impartial manner. It requires us to act out of a sense of obligation to moral laws that are universally valid and binding on all rational beings. By acting out of duty, we transcend our personal desires and inclinations, aligning our actions with the demands of reason and morality.- Kant argues that moral actions must be motivated by duty rather than inclination in order to be truly worthy of praise. By following the dictates of reason and adhering to universal moral principles, we demonstrate our respect for the inherent dignity and worth of all rational beings. Only by acting out of duty can we fulfill our moral obligations and uphold the highest ideals of morality and ethics.
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