Kant's Dualism: Theoretical Reason, Morality, and Metaphysics
Kant's Philosophy: Theoretical and Practical Reason
Theoretical Reason and the Limits of Knowledge
In the analysis of theoretical reason, Kant asks whether metaphysics is possible as a science. Kant considers scientific knowledge a fact, asserting that science exists.
The Conditions of Scientific Knowledge
Knowledge (science) requires the knowledge of objects that must lie in both intuition (sensitivity) and concept (understanding). This means:
- There are sensations (intuition).
- These sensations are conceptualized by a knowing subject that feels and thinks (concept).
Transcendental Philosophy
Transcendental philosophy is concerned with determining the a priori conditions of knowledge. Space and time are evidence of sensitivity, and the categories are the forms of understanding.
For Kant, knowledge only occurs when both intuition and concept have been dealt with—meaning that the necessary insights are conceptualized. Knowing involves thinking.
Why Metaphysics Fails as Science
Metaphysics is impossible as a science because its subjects—the soul, the world, and God—are not objects of knowledge. They are ideas of reason which, although conceivable, cannot be known because they cannot be experienced through intuition.
The Practical Use of Reason (Moral Philosophy)
Reason is not just theoretical; it is also practical. Kant analyzes the practical use of reason, dealing with the pure or a priori principles of morality.
The Object of the Will
In practical use, the object is the will—the power to wish for or desire, which identifies practices or conduct.
If we decide to do something according to our inclinations, this is a maxim (an unvalidated universal and necessary decision).
A decision that can hold for all possible rational agents is not merely a maxim but a practical law of behavior (lacking specific content and object). Behavior is moral only if it is based on conduct valid for all.
The Categorical Imperative
The moral law is shaped like an imperative because, as finite beings, we must overcome inclinations.
Kant's Categorical Imperative states:
“Work so that the maxim of your will can claim as a universal law.”
Respect for the moral law is acting with respect toward the other. Therefore, the Categorical Imperative may also be expressed as:
“Act so that you use humanity, whether in your own person or in the person of any other, always at the same time as an end, and not simply as a means.”
Autonomy and the Postulates of Practical Reason
When we act in conformity with the moral law, we act autonomously and freely. The autonomy of the will is dignity.
Morality lies in something purely intelligible.
The postulates of Pure Practical Reason (necessary conditions for the moral law to make sense) are:
- Freedom of the will.
- The immortality of the soul.
- The existence of God.