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Single Idea 5604

[from 'Critique of Pure Reason' by Immanuel Kant, in 2. Reason / A. Nature of Reason / 1. On Reason ]

Full Idea

In reason itself nothing begins, but as the unconditioned condition of very voluntary action.

Gist of Idea

In reason things can only begin if they are voluntary

Source

Immanuel Kant (Critique of Pure Reason [1781], B582/A554)

Book Reference

Kant,Immanuel: 'Critique of Pure Reason', ed/tr. Guyer,P /Wood,A W [CUO 1998], p.543


A Reaction

Kant's way of saying that free will is essential for pure reason. I can't quite digest 'pure' reason, but it is undeniable that rational processes seem to have rules of their own, and to arise entirely from the world of ideas, and not from the physical.