Practical Kantian Ethics

By reversing the usual order of Kantian interpretation, Donald Wilson begins with Kant’s applied moral philosophy and uses this later work to offer a radically new account of his views.

Through an “inner freedom” model, Wilson connects and explains diverse threads in Kant’s moral theory informing obscure aspects of the Groundwork and presents a different and comprehensive vision of Kantian moral life.

This new account transcends the narrow rational asceticism often associated with Kant’s view, embedding morality in our humanity, recognizing the vital role of emotion in moral life, and prioritizing framing moral commitments and questions of character over obedience to formal rules. It makes community and collective and individual judgment essential in giving content to ideals of practical respect, creating important space for moral disagreement and growth.

Focused on the integration of diverse norms and the lived experience of morality, this nuanced account shows how we are capable of guiding ordinary moral judgement. It is essential reading for anyone working on Kant’s moral philosophy today.