Kant's Doctrine of Virtue

This guide to Kant's Doctrine of Virtue provides accessible interpretations and insights into Kant's normative ethical theory, essential for students and scholars alike.

In Kant's Doctrine of Virtue, the author delves into Immanuel Kant's final work on ethics, providing a comprehensive guide to understanding this complex text. As the second part of the 1797 publication, The Metaphysics of Morals, this book outlines Kant's normative ethical theory, making it accessible for readers who may find the original challenging. The guide stands out as the first English-language resource dedicated solely to Kant's Doctrine of Virtue, offering clear explanations and fresh interpretations of Kant's ideas.

The guide is structured into five distinct parts, each designed to enhance the reader's comprehension of Kant's ethical framework. The first part discusses Kant's life and the historical context surrounding Kant's Doctrine of Virtue, while also situating his ethical views within his broader metaphysical and epistemological perspectives. The second part introduces the General Introduction to The Metaphysics of Morals, which is crucial for grasping Kant's ethical principles.

Subsequent sections focus on the core of Kant's Doctrine of Virtue, including his arguments for a system of duties and the associated virtues. The final part addresses Kant's thoughts on moral education and the practice of virtue, culminating in a discussion about the absence of religious duties within his ethical framework. Timmons concludes the guide by connecting Kant's theories to other normative ethical frameworks, making it an essential resource for students and scholars interested in ethics and philosophy.