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Single Idea 3731

[from 'Groundwork of the Metaphysic of Morals' by Immanuel Kant, in 23. Ethics / D. Deontological Ethics / 5. Persons as Ends ]

Full Idea

Rational nature exists as an end in itself; this is the way in which a man necessarily conceives his own existence.

Gist of Idea

Rational beings necessarily conceive their own existence as an end in itself

Source

Immanuel Kant (Groundwork of the Metaphysic of Morals [1785], 429.66)

Book Reference

Kant,Immanuel: 'The Moral Law (Groundwork of Morals)', ed/tr. Paton,H.J. [Hutchinson 1948], p.91