How Kantian Ethics Utilizes Intentionality to Rationalize Human Behavior

Date

April 2020

Description

According to Immanuel Kant, the intent behind one’s actions are of greater importance than the actions themselves. Mae West stated, “it’s not what you say, but how you say it.” However, this research will assert that it’s not what one does, but how they do it. The premise of this argument will be backed by Kantian principles, logic-based reasoning, and empirical truths. If one seeks to help others purely motivated by selfish reasons and vainglory, does that not corrupt their action since that action is done with ill-intent? One may say that murder is wrong, but what if the one murdered sought to harm the innocent, and the one who took the life did so for the greater good and to stop the infiltration of evil? These questions can only be answered utilizing Kantian Principles. Therefore, the intent behind one’s actions are of greater importance than the actions themselves.

Comments

This oral presentation is based on an individual research project.

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How Kantian Ethics Utilizes Intentionality to Rationalize Human Behavior

According to Immanuel Kant, the intent behind one’s actions are of greater importance than the actions themselves. Mae West stated, “it’s not what you say, but how you say it.” However, this research will assert that it’s not what one does, but how they do it. The premise of this argument will be backed by Kantian principles, logic-based reasoning, and empirical truths. If one seeks to help others purely motivated by selfish reasons and vainglory, does that not corrupt their action since that action is done with ill-intent? One may say that murder is wrong, but what if the one murdered sought to harm the innocent, and the one who took the life did so for the greater good and to stop the infiltration of evil? These questions can only be answered utilizing Kantian Principles. Therefore, the intent behind one’s actions are of greater importance than the actions themselves.