Moral duties stem from rational selflegislation, not external commands from "summary" of Groundwork for the Metaphysics of Morals by Immanuel Kant
The fundamental principle of morality, according to Kant, is the notion that moral duties arise from rational self-legislation. This means that individuals should act in accordance with principles that they themselves have rationally determined to be universal laws. In other words, moral duties do not stem from external commands or instructions given by others; rather, they originate from the rational capacity of each individual to determine what is right or wrong. Kant argues that moral laws must be based on pure reason, rather than on the desires or inclinations of individuals. This is because only rational beings are capable of understanding and following universal moral principles that apply to all individuals in all circumstances. By using reason to determine the moral law, individuals are able to act autonomously, without being influenced by external factors such as social norms or personal interests. Furthermore, Kant believes that moral duties must be self-imposed in order to have true moral worth. This means that individuals must freely choose to follow the moral law out of a sense of duty, rather than out of fear of punishment or desire for reward. By acting in accordance with their own rational principles, individuals demonstrate their moral autonomy and their commitment to upholding universal moral laws.- Kant's concept of moral duties stemming from rational self-legislation emphasizes the importance of individual autonomy and rationality in determining what is morally right or wrong. By relying on reason rather than external commands, individuals are able to uphold universal moral principles that apply to all individuals, regardless of their personal desires or circumstances. This understanding of morality as a product of rational self-legislation highlights the inherent dignity and autonomy of each individual in determining their own moral duties.
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