Items related to Kantian Ethics and the Ethics of Evolution

Kantian Ethics and the Ethics of Evolution - Softcover

Jacob Gould Schurman

 
9781330103708: Kantian Ethics and the Ethics of Evolution

Synopsis

This book explores the clash between two dominant ethical systems: Kantian ethics, rooted in reason and the autonomy of the will, and the ethics of evolution, emphasizing the inherent determinism of nature. The author examines how these philosophies grapple with the fundamental question of human freedom – can our choices truly be free in a universe governed by natural laws? The author traces the historical development of Kantian thought, demonstrating how later philosophers like Schelling and Schopenhauer built upon, and ultimately diverged from, Kant's core ideas. This fascinating exploration delves into the intricate relationship between the "intelligible character," representing our free will, and the "empirical character," reflecting our actions within the constraints of the world. Ultimately, the book argues that Kant's system struggles to reconcile these two seemingly incompatible aspects of human nature. The book offers a thought-provoking analysis of the enduring debate over free will and determinism, providing valuable insights into the philosophical foundations of ethics and our understanding of human agency.

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