more from Immanuel Kant

Single Idea 22442

[catalogued under 23. Ethics / B. Contract Ethics / 3. Promise Keeping]

Full Idea

Truthfulness is a duty that must be regarded as the basis of all duties to be grounded on a contract, the law of which is made uncertain and useless if even the least exception to it is admitted.

Gist of Idea

If lies were ever acceptable, with would undermine all duties based on contract

Source

Immanuel Kant (On a supposed right to lie [1797], p.30)

Book Reference

'Deontology', ed/tr. Darwall,Stephen [Blackwell 2003], p.30


A Reaction

Should we keep contracts which are made by means of deception and coercion? Where could such absolute authority for contracts come from? Do contracts and treaties tend to lapse after a long period of time?