Practical Kantian Ethics

Reversing the usual order of interpretation, Donald Wilson reinterprets Kants moral theory through his later practical works offering a new inner freedom account informing obscure aspects of Kants formal moral philosophy and the practical focus of ideals of proper respect. This account transcends the narrow rational asceticism often associated with Kants 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. In doing so, 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, Wilsons account affords Kantians a nuanced understanding of the relationship between moral and personal life and everyday norms of fidelity, non-violence, rescue, and care capable of guiding ordinary moral judgement and informing deliberation in hard cases where different grounds of obligation conflict. It is essential reading for anyone working on Kants moral philosophy today.