Shallow Morality in the Groundwork

Abstract

Abstract This chapter begins the book’s interpretation of the Groundwork with a discussion of common moral rational cognition (CMRC) in Groundwork I. Although CMRC determines its actions by asking itself “can you also will that your maxim become a universal law?” it still has a propensity to rationalize against the strict laws of duty. What, then, is missing from CMRC? CMRC is shallow because even though it only acts on maxims that can be a universal law, it fails to comprehend why it is obligated to act on such maxims. It ought to act on maxims that can be a universal law because to do so is to act for the sake of its own rational nature. Only by grasping this reason are we deeply motivated to do what is right and our conformity to the moral law is not precarious.