Who is Immanuel Kant?

Immanuel Kant (1724–1804) was a German philosopher who is widely regarded as one of the most significant thinkers of the Enlightenment. He was born in Königsberg (now Kaliningrad, Russia) and spent his entire life in that city. Kant's philosophical work synthesized early modern rationalism and empiricism, significantly influencing areas such as metaphysics, epistemology, ethics, and aesthetics. His critical philosophy, especially articulated in his three major works known as the Critiques—Critique of Pure Reason (1781), Critique of Practical Reason (1788), and Critique of Judgment (1790)—focused on the concept of human autonomy and the role of reason in establishing moral law and scientific knowledge^[2][3][4].

Kant's early upbringing in a Pietist family shaped his educational journey, culminating in his theological studies at the University of Königsberg. He initially worked as a private tutor, gaining a reputation for his lectures in philosophy, mathematics, and natural sciences. In 1770, he became a professor of logic and metaphysics at the University of Königsberg, a position he held until his retirement^[1][2][3][4].

Kant's best-known contribution to ethics is the concept of the 'categorical imperative,' which suggests that moral actions are determined by rational laws that must be universally applicable. He argued that moral worth comes from intent rather than consequences, establishing a framework for moral reasoning based on duty^[4][5]. His philosophical inquiries also aimed to reconcile the perceived conflicts of reason with the principles of morality and religious belief during a time of significant intellectual upheaval^[2][4].

Kant wrote extensively throughout his life, producing key works that explored the structure of human knowledge and the limits of metaphysics, ultimately asserting that while we can know phenomena, the noumenal world remains beyond our cognitive reach^[3][4]. His life was characterized by an orderly routine, and he is noted for his disciplined approach to daily living^[4]. Kant passed away in 1804, leaving a profound impact on modern philosophy and thought^[3][4].