The Metaphysics of Morals
Two doctrines distinguish external legal relationships from ethical duties to oneself and others, supplying systematic content for practical philosophy.
Understanding the text
Published after the foundational works, it combines the Doctrine of Right with the Doctrine of Virtue.
Key points
- 01
Right
The coexistence of external freedoms can authorize regulated public coercion.
- 02
Virtue
Duties concerning ends require a disposition that external coercion cannot produce.
- 03
Duties
Self-perfection and others’ happiness organize obligations whose application requires judgment.
How to read it
Begin with the introductions to both doctrines. Study political exclusions and claims about punishment alongside their arguments rather than equating the entire work with the principle of dignity alone.
Editions & sources
Summaries and key points are original editorial interpretations. They accompany reading the work and do not replace an edition of the text. Editorial method ↗