ABSTRACT

Perhaps the most glaring inadequacy in this book so far is its failure to consider the ethical philosophy of Kant. There are two reasons in particular why he should be mentioned. (1) His influence has been considerable, particularly on the work of many philosophers concerned with education. (2) His ethical position stands in contrast to the utilitarian view. However, I shall argue, despite the first point, that there is a difficulty in Kant’s position so great as to lead one to the conclusion that he is in some respects plainly wrong, and that what is important in his view is also to be found, under another name, in utilitarianism.