Kant's Moral Theory (363-0-20)

Instructors

Kyla Ebels-Duggan
847/467-0437
Kresge 3-437

Meeting Info

Kresge Centennial Hall 2-435: Mon, Wed 2:00PM - 3:20PM

Overview of class

This course explores the moral thought of one of the most influential figures in philosophy. Immanuel Kant systematizes and defends several familiar moral ideas, such as the unconditional authority of moral requirements and the dignity of each individual. He argues that acting morally is both a requirement of reason and the condition for our freedom, so that morally wrong action is both irrational and a kind of bondage. His approach to moral theory persists in its power, and remains one of a handful of live options among moral philosophers working today. We will engage in a careful study of this system, focusing on the Groundwork of the Metaphysics of Morals, and also reading parts of the Critique of Practical Reason, the Metaphysics of Morals, and Religion within the Bounds of Mere Reason.

Registration Requirements

At least one prior writing-based philosophy class.

Learning Objectives

Students will be expected to have an understanding of the basic concepts of Kant's moral theory and the relations among them, as well as knowledge of what makes a Kantian approach to moral theory distinctive.

Teaching Method

The course will be organized around lectures, with plenty of time for questions and discussion.

Evaluation Method

Argument reconstructions, papers, and in class final exam.

Class Materials (Required)

Class materials must be purchased.

Groundwork of the Metaphysics of Morals
Immanuel Kant
Cambridge, 2012
10-1107401062

Understanding Kant's Groundwork
Steven M. Cahn, ed
Hackett, 2023
978-1-64792-118-7

Creating the Kingdom of Ends.
Christine Korsgaard,
Cambridge, 1996.
0-521-49962-3

Class Materials (Suggested)

Religion within the Boundaries of Mere Reason
Immanuel Kant, (Allen Wood and George di Giovanni, trans.)
Cambridge, 1999. (2018 version)
9781316604021

The Practice of Moral Judgment.
Barbara Herman,
Harvard, 1993.
0-674-69718-9

Critique of Practical Reason
Immanuel Kant
Cambridge, 2015
10-1107467055

Class Attributes

SoC Humanities and Fine Arts Distro
SoC Individual and Social Behavior Distro

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: Prerequisite: Student must have completed a Philosophy course to register for this class.

Associated Classes

DIS - University Library 3322: Tues 12:00PM - 12:50PM

DIS - University Library 3322: Fri 12:00PM - 12:50PM