Kant Prep

As addressed by the syllabus, contradicting one's self is something that ought to be avoided. When having a discussion with another person, each can convey a point. The only way for the point to be received by the other person, the goal of a discussion, is if the speaker has a clear view of the point being discussed. This means that the speaker must take one stance on the topic and explain that side of the point. Doing otherwise would not be a desirable characteristic as this person would be unable to carry on a useful conversation. Looking at our historic figures, we note that characteristics that are undesirable are often not moral. This can be related to what Hume talks about in his inquiry of human nature. The morals of one depend on those around him. Also, however, we must note that there are limitations to which we can hold contradiction as a measure of morality. The first of the limitations to be discussed is language. Oftentimes society reveres language and ignores its shortcomings. These shortcomings can lead to a situation that may seem contradictory, but follows the true ideas of the speaker. Another problem with the notion that contradiction can measure morality is rationality. We have discussed rationality and reason to a great extent, but have not determined that this is directly related to morality. The problem with associating reason with morality is that emotion and passion still play a large part in many actions. Going back to the main point of contradiction, I feel as though statements of relationship can be made. These statements must be hypothetical, however, as we have no true scientific means to study this relationship. Contradiction of the truest kind, when it manifests in the belief of a person, can be considered not immoral, but the path to immorality. What I am trying to say here is that a person who not only understands the consequences of an action and believes that that same action is immoral will contradict himself only if he acts in the opposite manner and behave immorally. This contradiction is of the darkest nature, yet we must account for these people in our society as they too get to vote.