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Groundwork For Metaphysic Of Morals By Immanuel Kant

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Immanuel Kant, a renowned philosopher, reflected upon the fundamental question of ethics concerning what makes a moral action wrong or right. In the “Groundwork for Metaphysic of Morals” by Kant, he claims that the only thing good is without qualification is “the good will.” Kant’s idea/belief highlights the essence of moral intentions and duty over self-interest or external factors, but it overlooks the importance of outcomes and consequences in determining moral goodness. His ideology sparks philosophical discourse, which leads to varied ethical perspectives regarding moral intention versus the outcomes of determining moral goodness. According to Kant, an act is considered good if done from moral duty and is not influenced by personal desires or external factors. In the “Groundwork,” Kant states, “It isn’t what it brings about, its usefulness in achieving some intended end. Rather, good will is good because of how it wills—i.e., it is good in itself (Kant 5).” He highlights that the intrinsic moral value of the good will is found in its will, …show more content…

In the “Groundwork,” Kant acknowledges, “Through bad luck or a miserly endowment from step motherly nature, this person’s will has no power at all to accomplish its purpose; not even the greatest effort on his part would enable it to achieve anything it aims at (Kant 5).” This quote explains the limitations of good intentions when they are not accompanied by motivation or abilities to fulfill the intended purpose. By emphasizing the intention, it overlooks the practical effectiveness of an individual’s will and the importance of achieving a positive result, such as feeling a sense of accomplishment or happiness. For example, a shopkeeper may welcome customers with a friendly smile, but their products could be false or

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