The moral life is a life guided by reason from "summary" of THE CRITIQUE OF PRACTICAL REASON by Immanuel Kant
The moral life, according to Immanuel Kant, is one that is guided by reason. Kant argues that morality is not based on feelings or desires, but on rational principles that can be universally applied. Reason, for Kant, is the ultimate authority in determining what is right and what is wrong. Kant believes that reason provides us with moral laws that are binding on all rational beings. These moral laws are not contingent on our individual circumstances or desires, but are based on the inherent dignity and worth of rational beings. In other words, morality is not subjective or relative, but objective and universal. In order to live a moral life, one must use reason to determine what one ought to do in a given situation. This involves reflecting on the moral law and applying it to one's actions. Kant argues that moral decisions should be made out of a sense of duty, rather than out of self-interest or personal gain. Moreover, reason allows us to recognize and respect the autonomy of others. By treating others as ends in themselves, rather than as means to an end, we acknowledge their rational nature and inherent worth. This forms the basis of Kant's categorical imperative, which states that we should always act in such a way that we could will our maxim to become a universal law.- Kant's idea that the moral life is a life guided by reason is rooted in his belief in the objectivity and universality of moral principles. By using reason to determine right from wrong, and by acting out of a sense of duty and respect for others, we can lead a truly moral life.
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