Immanuel Kant 
Groundwork of the Metaphysic of Morals (Translated by Thomas Kingsmill Abbott) 

The 18th century German philosopher Immanuel Kant is widely considered as one the most important figures in modern philosophy. His fundamental arguments with regard to the fields of metaphysics, epistemology, ethics, political philosophy, and aesthetics, have been highly influential and form the basis for much of contemporary thought upon the subjects with which he was concerned. Kant believed that there were fundamental concepts that structured human experience, and that reason principally should guide one’s examination of these concepts. “Groundwork for the Metaphysic of Morals” is his classic exposition of moral philosophy. In this work Kant examines the core concepts of moral theory in an effort to lay bare the fundamental principles of morality. This highly influential work of philosophy is groundbreaking in its argument that righteousness is a function of the character of the principles upon which people act. Kant’s ideas on morality are intriguing and exemplary of his deft at philosophical thought. “Groundwork for the Metaphysic of Morals” is a must read for all seeking a better understanding of the world and humanity’s place in it, through philosophical inquiry.