The Metaphysical Elements of Ethics

This work constructs a metaphysical foundation for ethics by deriving pure practical principles that govern maxims rather than particular acts. It distinguishes ethics from jurisprudence, differentiates strict juridical duties from indeterminate duties of virtue, and analyzes ends that are themselves duties—notably self-perfection through cultivation of faculties and the promotion of others' happiness. It argues that moral law prescribes maxims via an unconditional imperative, examines conscience, moral feeling, and love of humanity as faculties responding to duty, and outlines virtue as self-command and inner strength. The result is a systematic framework for judging moral motives, obligations, and the limits of duty.