kantianism

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • Philosophical system: "Kantianism" refers to the philosophical system developed by Immanuel Kant, emphasizing the role of reason and the categorical imperative in ethics, and the distinction between phenomena (things as they appear) and noumena (things in themselves).
Usage Examples
  • Noun:
    • Kantianism has profoundly influenced modern ethics, particularly through its focus on duty and moral law. (The philosophical system of Kant, stressing moral obligations derived from reason.)
    • Many contemporary debates in metaphysics still engage with the core tenets of Kantianism. (The philosophical framework established by Kant.)
Advanced Usage

  • "Neo-Kantianism": A revival or reinterpretation of Kantian philosophy, especially in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

    • Neo-Kantianism sought to apply Kant's ideas to new scientific and cultural contexts. (A modernized version of Kantian thought.)

  • "Transcendental idealism": A central component of Kantianism, positing that space and time are forms of human perception rather than objective realities.

    • Kantianism's transcendental idealism challenges the notion that we can know things independent of our sensory experience. (The idealist aspect of Kant's system.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Kantian (adj): relating to or characteristic of Immanuel Kant or his philosophy.

    • Her argument is deeply Kantian in its emphasis on universal moral principles. (Reflective of Kant's ideas.)

  • Kant (n): the philosopher Immanuel Kant (1724–1804), founder of Kantianism.

    • Kant's work 'Critique of Pure Reason' is foundational to Kantianism. (The philosopher's name used as a reference.)
Synonyms
  • Kantian philosophy: synonymous with Kantianism, though less formal.
  • Critical philosophy: another term for Kant's system, emphasizing his critique of pure reason.
Related Idioms

  • "The categorical imperative": a key concept in Kantianism, meaning an unconditional moral obligation that applies to all rational beings.

    • Kantianism holds that the categorical imperative is the foundation of ethical action. (The central moral principle of Kant's ethics.)

  • "Phenomena vs. noumena": a distinction in Kantianism between the world as we experience it (phenomena) and the world as it is in itself (noumena).

    • Understanding this distinction is essential to grasping Kantianism. (A core duality in Kant's system.)