Moral Argument

The Moral Argument

Kant's a posteriori argument
We don't understand God so we have to infer him through practical reason
Human beings are rational, autonomous moral decision-makers
Moral action is about doing one's duty
Need to do duty to achieve the Summun Bonum(the highest good)
Through reason alone we can work out what is the right thing to do because the right thing to do has to be applicable universally
However, in the world people can do their duty and yet still not achieve happiness because of corruption and wickedness in the world
If the highest good is not achievable in this life, it must be achievable in the afterlife
God must exist to provide the Summum Bonum
Strengths:
Most people live morally responsible lives and condemn others who don't
People feel bad when they do something they should not, even if no one is around (conscience)
However, there are some weaknesses:
Just because you ought to aim at achieving the Summum Bonum, it does not mean that the highest good has to be achievable

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