The implications of Kantian Ethics for Non-rational Nature/Beings: A Study in Environmental Ethics

Year 2023, Volume: 6 Issue: 2 - Sustainable Agriculture and Environmental Ethics: Insights from Nigeria, 93 - 103, 28.11.2023

Tom Ogar , Samuel Bassey

Abstract

This article will provide an introduction to Immanuel Kant’s ethical theory, which adopts a deontological perspective, as well as his viewpoint on non-rational beings. This work consists of two components. In the first section, we will extensively discuss Kant’s concepts of the categorical imperative and good will. Kant’s ethical philosophy is founded upon the concept of logical decision-making that is guided by a sense of responsibility. As per his perspective, all phenomena in the natural world operate in line with inherent rules, whereas only entities possessing rationality have the capacity to act in alignment with moral principles and possess the faculty of volition. In the following section, we will examine Immanuel Kant’s concept of moral duty towards things that lack rationality. According to Kant, individuals have responsibilities only to themselves and their fellow human beings. Humans are not morally obligated to fulfill any duties or responsibilities towards non-rational beings. Kant posited the notion that the act of murdering animals and the destruction of natural beauty were deemed immoral due to their consequential impact on an individual’s sense of self-accountability and the heightened probability of mistreating fellow human beings.

Keywords

Environmental Ethics, Kantian Ethics, Non-rational Nature, categorical imperative

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