Example Of Essay On Emmanuel Kants Ethical Theory

The ethical theory proposed by the great German philosopher Emmanuel Kant is centered on three dimensions- goodwill, moral worth and duty. Possession of goodwill is the primary requirement of achieving morality. Goodness of one's action is not defined by its goal, reason, means and the expected desirable effects, but is solely determined by its nature. Therefore, certain actions such as theft, cheating, and murder are prohibited even if these actions will hinder man from gaining more happiness since they are naturally immoral.
Moral worth is achieved only if the actions are governed by goodwill alone. Actions will not be considered as moral when it is influenced by reasons or by a desire to achieve a certain purpose. Thus, the things that we do which are products of our inclination to attain happiness or the need to satisfy our wants lack moral value. Kant points out that the failure of man to achieve genuine satisfaction is due to the belief that the sole purpose of his existence is to seek and achieve happiness.
Kant's principle is a deontological theory in which the goodness and wrongness of any action depend on the fulfillment or negligence of our duty. Morality is based on Categorical Imperatives that are unconditional commands applicable to everyone and must be followed regardless if they will result to our success or failure of achieving personal interests. Part of the Categorical Imperative is like the Golden Rule as it prohibits man from doing actions that he will not allow others to do to unto him.
Moreover, actions that have true moral worth are those that are performed in a respectful accordance with the law because of extrinsic features such as fear, self-preservation, selfish interest, and desire for prospective outcomes would dissolve the moral value in all actions.
Kant's philosophy describes moral action as an undertaking that is good in itself and produced out of pure goodwill with the absence of ulterior motives, regardless of the nature of such motives and without consideration to the action's consequences, circumstances, means and purpose.