German Philosopher Immanuel Kant views of morality were centered on the principle of good will. Kant defines good will as “the concept of a faculty of action according to a conception of universal law” (Deontology pg 9). This encompasses the belief that one’s motive is the determining factor in whether or not an individual possesses good or bad morals and, not the outcome of his actions. Thus, an individual who possesses good will shall only make decisions that they believe to be morally worthwhile regardless of the gains to be had or the possible outcomes. This is what in the end makes an individual a ‘good person’ or, of ‘good will’.
Kant argued that “only reason in its pure universal and logical use can tell us what is good in itself” (Metaphysics of Moral.pg 4). This tells us that good will is determined and dependent upon practical reason. In addition to reason kant also spoke of duty. He believes that good will is also determined by an individual’s sense of duty. This duty must be something that goes against our self-interest, applies to all circumstances and situations and as such must be a universal principle. Therefore, when one follows practical reason and duty, he will be able to guide his free will.
As it relates to happiness Kant argued that” "making a man happy is quite different from making him good and making him prudent and sharp-sighted for his advantage quite different from making him virtuous"(Kant's Ethics). This helps us to understand Kant’s belief that being happy does not equate to being good-willed neither does an action that makes others happy. In the end, it is based solely on the motive for such actions that defines our morality. Kant argued that even if an individual may possess gifts of nature such as courage and perseverance and gifts of fortune such as riches and health. These gifts are still not good will on their own merit because they can also be used in an evil way unless directed by good will (Kant's Ethics).
These views of happiness and virtue are different from other moralists or philosophers. For example, Aristotle, whose beliefs on virtue were that, individuals inherently possess good character, and once nurtured become constant over-time. He believes that a virtuous person is one who has the “Ideal character traits” (Virtue Ethics). This is contrary to the principles of Kant, who believes that character traits on its own do not ensure a virtuous individual but rather his motives for acting.
In essence Kant moralist perspective dictates that man must always be aware of his reason and duty, and these should not be out of selfish inclinations or fear but, to the rule of a universal law. It is within these constraints that a man can act in ‘good will.’
Works cited
“Kant's Ethics”, WFU.edu. nd. Web 19 June 2016.
Nafsika, Athanassoulis, “Virtue Ethics”, Internet Encyclopedia of Psychology. nd. Web 19 June 2016
“Moral Philosophy”, Groundwork of the Metaphysics of Moral.
“Moral Philosophy”, Deontology.
