Ethical duties are derived from rational principles from "summary" of THE CRITIQUE OF PRACTICAL REASON by Immanuel Kant
Ethical duties are not arbitrary or contingent, but are grounded in rational principles that are universal and necessary. According to Kant, morality is not based on subjective desires or external commands, but on the inherent rationality of human beings. It is through the exercise of practical reason that we are able to discern what is morally right and wrong. Kant argues that moral principles are derived from the categorical imperative, which is a universal law that applies to all rational beings. This imperative commands us to act in such a way that we can will our actions to become a universal law. In other words, we should only act in ways that we would want everyone else to act in similar circumstances. Furthermore, Kant believes that moral duties are not contingent on the outcomes of our actions, but on the intentions behind them. It is not enough to do the right thing for the wrong reasons; one must act out of a sense of duty and respect for the moral law itself. This is because morality is not about achieving happiness or pleasure, but about doing what is right simply because it is right.- Ethical duties are not based on personal inclinations or preferences, but on rational principles that are binding on all rational beings. By following the dictates of practical reason and obeying the categorical imperative, we are able to act in accordance with our moral duties and uphold the universal principles of morality. Ultimately, the foundation of ethics lies in the rational nature of human beings and our ability to discern and follow the dictates of practical reason.
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