Kant claims that humans have a special kind of value not possessed by anything else on earth. How does he justify this claim? What are the implications of this view regarding the moral status of non-human animals? Do you find this view plausible?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Answer is Kant justifies his claim that humans have a special kind of value by arguing that humans possess rationality and autonomy, which sets them apart from all other beings on earth. According to Kant, rationality and autonomy give humans the ability to make moral choices and to act according to moral principles, which gives them a unique moral worth. This moral worth is not possessed by non-human animals, as they lack the capacity for rational thought and moral agency.

The implications of Kant's view regarding the moral status of non-human animals are that they do not have the same moral worth as humans. Kant argues that while humans have a duty to treat animals with kindness and compassion, this duty is based on our moral obligations towards other humans, rather than on the inherent value of animals themselves. This means that non-human animals do not have the same rights or moral standing as humans, and can be used for human purposes as long as they are treated with respect and compassion.

Whether or not one finds Kant's view plausible depends on one's perspective. Some may agree with Kant's emphasis on rationality and autonomy as the basis for moral worth, and may believe that humans do indeed have a special kind of value. Others may disagree with Kant's anthropocentric view and argue that non-human animals also have inherent value and deserve moral consideration independent of their usefulness to humans. Ultimately, the plausibility of Kant's view is a matter of personal belief and ethical perspective.

Kant Claims That Humans Have a Special Kind of Value