Publication Date
2013
Journal
Washington University Jurisprudence Review
Abstract
This article describes the metaphysics of Kant, according to which we never know the Thing In Itself but only the appearance of it. When applied to selfhood (which is a “thing”), Kant implies that we never know what motivates us to do what we do. Our reasons are after-the-fact apologies to justify our acts. For that reason the “cause” of our deed always (that is to say, our reasons) follows the deed itself. Effect precedes cause, on Kantian metaphysics.
Volume
6
Issue
1
First Page
161
Last Page
173
Publisher
Washington University School of Law
Keywords
jurisprudence, legal philosophy, Kant, metaphysics, cause, effects
Disciplines
Human Rights Law | International Law | Jurisprudence | Law
Recommended Citation
David G. Carlson,
Effect Precedes Cause: Kant and the Self-In-Itself,
6
Wash. U. Jurisprudence Rev.
161
(2013).
https://larc.cardozo.yu.edu/faculty-articles/803
