Publisher's Synopsis
Fundamental Principles of the Metaphysic of Morals (1785) This edition binds together two of Kant's best known works: Fundamental Principles of the Metaphysic of Morals & The Metaphysical Elements of Ethics Fundamental Principles of the Metaphysic of Morals, also known as the 'Groundwork of the Metaphysics of Morals', is the first of Kant's mature works on moral philosophy. It remains one of the most influential in the field. Kant explains the core concepts and principles of moral theory and shows they are normative for rational agents. Kant aspires to lay bare the fundamental principle of morality and show that it applies to humans. The Metaphysical Elements of Ethics (1780)
In ancient times, ethics signified moral philosophy generally, a doctrine of duties. Subsequently it was found advisable to confine this to a part of moral philosophy, namely, to the doctrine of duties, which are not subject to external laws. Thus the system of general deontology is divided into that of jurisprudence, capable of external laws, and of ethics, which is incapable of external laws.
