Kantian Ethics: The Phenomena Of Respect And Worth (Worthiness)

Abstract

The article provides an analysis of the categories of worth and respect in Kant's ethics. It systematizes the main approaches to the definition of worth and respect as they are treated by Kant in his main ethical works. The authors note that the phenomenon of worth (worthiness) is given by Kant in three main approaches – as inborn worth (dignity) of a human person, worth of the moral law, worth of good will ready to obey the moral law. The last two approaches concretize or actualize panhuman worth (dignity) that is confirmed by the unity of reason and will in a person, which is stated by the three well-known formulations of the categorical imperative – their main concepts are human person (humanity), reason and will. Also, Kant provides three variants of interpretation of the phenomenon of respect – self-respect (subjective), respect to from other people (objective), respect from god (absolute). Although Kant’s ethical doctrine is opposed to consequentialism, we argue the moral law implies and provides these three positive and, in a way, invaluable effects for a human person that postulates and observes the moral law. Respect is treated as a side as well as immeasurable reward for human beings who display their worthiness. The authors insist on the essential relation between worth and respect. According to the authors, misunderstanding and plenty of interpretations regarding this issue in modern Kant studies arise from insufficient differentiation between potential (panhuman) and actual (moral) worth in Kant’s works.