Single Idea 3712

[catalogued under 22. Metaethics / C. The Good / 1. Goodness / g. Consequentialism]

Full Idea

A good will is not good because of what it effects or accomplishes.

Gist of Idea

A good will is not good because of what it achieves

Source

Immanuel Kant (Groundwork of the Metaphysic of Morals [1785], 394.3)

Book Reference

Kant,Immanuel: 'The Moral Law (Groundwork of Morals)', ed/tr. Paton,H.J. [Hutchinson 1948], p.60


A Reaction

This invites the obvious objection of the well-meaning fool, who causes misery despite meaning well. I firmly hold the view that what matters is what we do, not what we intend.