Kant's Theory As A Deontologist

Kant’s theory as a deontologist revolves around the obligations of rational motivation, good will and ethical principle (Barnett et al. 114). A human being must respect this guideline and act accordingly in order to act morally in response to human duties. An act committed by a human being is only considered as “moral worth” if it was conducted based on free will and fulfilled our human duties (Johnston et al., 2017). The motive behind the action is what determines whether the action is deemed morally worthy or not; it is the motive that holds value and not the consequence generated by the action (Mccormick. Immanuel Kant: Metaphysics). Kant believes that humans should act on the capacity and principles outlined by reasons. These principles,

Humans unlike non-humans have a different mind, humans have rational capacity which entitles them to intrinsic value and intellectual capabilities. Humans have goals that they want to accomplish, ambitions and life plans that they envision and set up for themselves. It seems that animals live for the moment or “as a kind of Eternal present” (Francione 171) suggesting that animals are not consciously aware of the purpose of being alive; their sole purpose is to fight for survival by hindering their prey and catching

What sets animals aside from humans is that animals are not capable of intellectual capacity such that they lack the ability of intrinsic value and moral autonomy. Humans have the right to treat animals as objects as humans hold the position of a higher hierarchy in all organisms. Humans can treat animals as objects so long as they are not treated as a means of a tool. If a human being were to inflict unnecessary harm to an animal, it would reflect on the human’s character and create the ability for the human to inflict harm on its species. [Humans have a duty and responsibility to care for others whether it being, other people, non-humans, the environment or future generations.] Disrespecting the animal is no different than inflicting purposeful harm on a human because harming animals results in a disservice to humans as it demonstrates viciousness of character. We have no indirect duty to animals, animals lack autonomy, the capability to reason and unity of consciousness. This being said, humans must show respect towards their domesticated pets. Cats and dogs show affection, want to be loved and display loyalty to their masters. If a human were to threaten their pet’s life, this person would be classified as cruel while displaying negligent behaviors to their human duty. According to Kant, the Duty of human beings is to protect our species and those similar