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Action Quote by Immanuel Kant

“An action, to have moral worth, must be done from duty.” quote by Immanuel Kant
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“An action, to have moral worth, must be done from duty.”

Immanuel Kant

About This Quote

Source Philosophy: Groundwork of the Metaphysics of Morals, 1785

Moral actions must stem from duty, not inclination, to possess true ethical value.

In simple terms: Do good because it is right, not for reward.

Key Takeaway

Act from duty, not desire.

Themes

ethics duty morality philosophy

Mood

serious instructive thoughtful

Type

philosophical ethical didactic

When to use this quote

  • personal decisions
  • professional conduct
  • legal judgments

Key Concepts

deontological ethics categorical imperative

Questions to Reflect On

  • What duties conflict with personal values?
  • Can duty be reconciled with empathy?
A Different Perspective

Duty alone may ignore consequences, leading to rigid outcomes.

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