Fundamental Principles of the Metaphysic of Morals

Immanuel Kant's Fundamental Principles of the Metaphysic of Morals originally published in 1785 and translated into English by Thomas Kingsmill Abbott presents Kant's ethical framework. Kant outlines key concepts like the categorical imperative which asserts that moral actions must be universalizable and rooted in duty rather than consequences. He argues that moral principles are derived from reason alone independent of empirical considerations or personal inclinations. Kant distinguishes between hypothetical imperatives which are conditional on personal desires or goals and categorical imperatives which are unconditional and apply universally. Through this work Kant aims to establish a rational foundation for ethics and delineate the principles that govern moral conduct.