Immanuel Kant's Philosophy: Peace, Ethics, and Society

Immanuel Kant and other philosophers grappled with problems that remain profoundly relevant today, particularly the enduring search for world peace. This approach, which Kant considered central to his philosophy, addresses the perpetual existence of ideological, social, and political issues that often lead to wars. Therefore, the existence of a perpetual peace between peoples is necessary, according to Kant. This can only be achieved through the establishment of a republican constitution that guarantees equal citizenship and liberty.

The Pursuit of Perpetual Peace

Kant's Vision for Global Harmony

Kant's vision for peace, however, contradicts his claims that the government of Frederick II is ideal, as he was fundamentally against monarchy. He criticized its denial of voting rights and freedom of speech to women and employees, thereby approaching despotism. Consequently, Kant's views on these matters can be seen as sexist and discriminatory.

Critiques of Despotism and Discrimination

According to Kant, all individuals, even in a state of nature, possess an innate morality that compels them to understand what they truly ought to do. I do not share his view that the performance of duty should lead to happiness as its ultimate goal. I believe that the first moral duty of humankind is to leave the state of nature, as it generates greater security and fosters a more civil society. In this type of government, citizens, not sovereigns, are the ones who decide on matters of war, acknowledging its profound impact on the populace.

Comparative Ethical Frameworks

Diverse Approaches to Moral Life

Hedonistic ethics posits that the moral life is fundamentally the pursuit of happiness. Various philosophers have offered distinct perspectives on this:

• Aristotle: Happiness through rational life and the practice of virtue.
• Hume: Morality rooted in emotion, evolving into utilitarianism.
• Kant: An action is morally good if performed purely out of duty, even if it conflicts with personal inclinations.

Kant's Dialogue with Hume

Knowledge: Sensory Experience vs. A Priori Categories

Kant criticizes Hume's perspective. For Hume, physical laws are unnecessary, and he does not accept them. In contrast, Kant argues that human knowledge is based on sensory experience ordered by a priori categories of understanding.

Moral Foundations: Sentiment vs. Autonomy

• Hume: Morality and ethics are based on sentiment.
• Kant: Morality is based on universal moral principles and the crucial concept of moral autonomy and duty.

Political Philosophy and Social Contract Theories

Plato, Aristotle, and the Concept of the State

Plato's Republic and Kingship

Plato's thought, as presented in The Republic, often stands in contrast to the concept of kingship, a point Kant also addresses. Plato, Aristotle, and Kant all contributed significantly to theories of the state.

Rousseau, Hobbes, and the Social Contract

Human Nature: Passions and Tendencies

Kant and Rousseau's theories on the rejection of war are notable. Rousseau believed that human nature, influenced by passions and tendencies, shares common ground with the views of Hobbes and Kant.

The Social Contract: From Insecurity to Freedom

Social Contract Theory highlights:

• Hobbes: Focus on natural insecurity.
• Rousseau: The Social Pact as an agreement among free and equal individuals within a community.
• Kant: The social contract as a moral duty that elevates human beings, enabling them to enforce rights and personal liberties, and to achieve peace and justice. This leads to the concept of a 'co-liberty' state.