Do the Right Thing
Wednesday, 21 February 2024 15:21
It’s a big year for German philosopher Immanuel Kant. This month sees the 220th anniversary of his death, and in April we will celebrate his tercentenary.
Kant is often called the “Father of Modern Philosophy,” although the title is hotly contested by other philosophers.This is to be expected, arguing is their job.
Kant went big on ethics, aesthetics, rational thought and metaphysics.The Kantian worldview is that morality arises from reason. He posited that you should always do the right action, regardless of the consequences. You decide on what is a good or bad action by the application of rational thought.
He called this the Categorical Imperative.
(Ho ho.)
You can see why I think Kant should be celebrated on our blog.
Belvedere, however, has distanced himself from this post, positing that this is a meretricious pun with no philosophical gravitas or redeeming feature. He also sneered my intended amusing reference to Kant’s Critique of Purr Reason (1781) as being unworthy of the motto in a Christmas Cracker, so I will not put it in. It’s tempting though.
Fierce brain though Kant was, his writing style is very convoluted and many readers tire before they get to the good bits, even if they have a fierce brain themselves.
Cats, on the other hand, express themselves very clearly. Have a look at Clever Cats , part of the Clowder Press’s Essential list for a less cerebrally demanding experience.