more from Michael J. Sandel

Single Idea 22262

[catalogued under 23. Ethics / D. Deontological Ethics / 2. Duty]

Full Idea

Given the stringent demands of the Kantian ethic, the moral law would seem almost to require a foundation in nothing, for any empirical precondition would undermine its priority.

Gist of Idea

Kant's moral law has no foundation - because that would undermine its priority

Source

Michael J. Sandel (Procedural republic and unencumbered self [1984], 'Kantian')

Book Reference

Sandel,Michael J.: 'Public Philosophy: Essays' [Harvard 2005], p.159


A Reaction

The idea of a value with 'a foundation in nothing' is particular anathema to me, because my project is to find a foundation for everything (in nature, which is the Given). Kant's only foundational value seems to be rational consistency.