Monday, October 22, 2012

Reason, Universalization, Repulsion

On the standard interpretation of Kant's principle of Pure Practical Reason, the one that he very likely intends, the specific function of Reason is to effect the universalization of a maxim, from which a compelling of respect eventuates.  In other words, the 'causality' that that reading ascribes to Reason is one that mysteriously inheres in its role as a supernatural faculty, i. e. as the source of universal representations.  In contrast, the universalization of a maxim can also be conceived as a process of what is here called 'Examplification', i. e. of setting an example, in which one wittingly projects oneself towards others.  In other words, the causality that the alternative interpretation ascribes to Reason is a palpable one, that consists in its functioning as a dynamic repulsive force, i. e. as generating outward projection.  So, absent, as has been previously discussed here, his commitment to theological supernaturalism, Kant might have fully embraced the concept of a more palpable natural Reason, and, hence, the classification of it as a dynamic force.

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