Kant's Groundwork of the Metaphysics of Morals

A set of flashcards covering key concepts and terms from Kant's work on ethics and moral philosophy.

Good Will

The only thing that is good without qualification; it is the intention to act based on principles reflecting one's own free nature.

Respect

To view or see another as having a certain status which confers value, independent of the uses or consequences associated with that person.

Intrinsic Value

Value that an object holds in itself, not based on external attributes or consequences.

Means/End Distinction

A distinction where ends are the purposes and goals, while means are the mechanisms to achieve those ends.

Hypothetical Imperative

A conditional statement that indicates an action to be done in a specific circumstance to achieve a desired result.

Categorical Imperative

An unconditional moral principle that commands action regardless of desires or outcomes.

Volition

The act of making a conscious choice or decision, comprised of inclinations and reason.

Duty

The binding necessity to follow a maxim based on the moral law, recognizing the moral obligations one holds.

The Kingdom of Ends

A moral community where each member is treated as an end in themselves, not merely as a means to an end.

Moral Law

An objective law that guides moral actions, discernible through reason and applicable to all rational beings.