Action Quote by Immanuel Kant
“An action, to have moral worth, must be done from duty.”
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.
Act from duty, not desire.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal decisions
- professional conduct
- legal judgments
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What duties conflict with personal values?
- Can duty be reconciled with empathy?
Duty alone may ignore consequences, leading to rigid outcomes.