The Critique of Practical Reason defends the autonomy of reason from "summary" of THE CRITIQUE OF PRACTICAL REASON by Immanuel Kant
In the Critique of Practical Reason, the autonomy of reason is a fundamental concept that underpins Kant's moral philosophy. Kant argues that reason possesses the capacity to determine the moral law independently of empirical considerations or external influences. This autonomy of reason is crucial for Kant because it allows individuals to act in accordance with moral principles that are universal and necessary. By defending the autonomy of reason, Kant rejects the idea that morality is contingent upon subjective desires or external authorities. Instead, he asserts that the moral law is a product of pure practical reason, which is capable of legislating moral principles that are binding on all rational beings. This means that individuals have a duty to follow the moral law, not because of any external rewards or punishments, but simply because it is their rational obligation. Moreover, Kant argues that the autonomy of reason is essential for the idea of moral responsibility. If individuals were not able to act autonomously in accordance with the moral law, then moral judgments would lose their significance. Without the autonomy of reason, moral actions would be reduced to mere impulses or reactions, devoid of any moral worth. In defending the autonomy of reason, Kant also emphasizes the importance of rational deliberation in moral decision-making. He argues that individuals must use their reason to determine the universal moral principles that should guide their actions. This rational deliberation is necessary to ensure that individuals act in a way that is consistent with the moral law and that respects the dignity of rational beings.- The concept of the autonomy of reason is central to Kant's moral philosophy in the Critique of Practical Reason. It highlights the capacity of reason to determine universal moral principles independently of external influences, thus grounding moral responsibility and rational deliberation in a way that is essential for a truly moral life.
