Summary
Arthur Schopenhauer's "On the Basis of Morality" argues that the foundation of morality lies not in intellectual formulas or abstract principles like Kant's Categorical Imperative, but in intuitive perception and the heart of human nature itself. He contends that truly moral conduct, characterized by justice and loving-kindness, is performed without egoistic motives, hope of reward, or fear of punishment, and this genuine moral behavior is the ultimate basis of morality, rooted in our very being. Schopenhauer critiques Kant's ethical system as unwarrantable and baseless, seeking to establish a foundation for ethics supported by experience rather than abstract reasoning.
The book challenges the notion of a "Moral Law" as an innate code, emphasizing that the true moral principle must be demonstrably efficient and grounded in human nature. It distinguishes between apparently unselfish acts driven by egoism and truly moral deeds, asserting that the peculiar motives leading to the latter, along with a susceptibility to them, form the ultimate basis of morality. Readers will understand that Schopenhauer places a strong emphasis on experiential evidence over a priori constructions in establishing ethical principles.
Key concepts
- The Basis of Morality — The ultimate foundation of ethical conduct, which Schopenhauer locates in human nature and intuitive perception, not abstract reason.
- Kant's Categorical Imperative — A principle of Kant's ethics, critically examined and rejected by Schopenhauer as an empty phrase lacking a solid foundation.
- Natural Morality — The existence and nature of morality stemming directly from human beings, distinct from imposed or artificial systems.
- Egoistic Motive — The self-interested drive behind actions, which Schopenhauer argues must be absent for an act to be truly moral.
- Justice and Loving-Kindness — Specific moral actions identified as expressions of true morality when performed without ulterior motives.
From the book
it, assuredly the Royal Society will not have expended its money amiss. (2) Apart from this, a peculiar disadvantage will be found to attach
Therefore he, who here puts his hand to the plough, must, for his
The conclusion from these two premises is that I must be allowed
Popular questions readers ask
- What is Schopenhauer's critique of Kant's ethics?
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- What are the conditions for founding ethics according to Schopenhauer?
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- What is Schopenhauer's metaphysical explanation of the primal ethical phenomenon?