Author(s)

Yan Bo ¹

Affiliation(s)

¹ Guizhou Normal University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China

Corresponding Author

Yan Bo

ABSTRACT

This paper delves into the distinct understandings of subjectivity in moral philosophy by Marx and Kant, and analyzes the profound impact of these understandings on modern society. Kant's moral philosophy emphasizes the rational autonomy of the moral subject, asserting that moral laws should be based on universal rational principles, namely the categorical imperative, to ensure the universal validity of moral actions. In contrast, Marx's moral philosophy focuses on the class nature of the practical subject, believing that moral judgments and actions are deeply influenced by the social economic structure and class relations. By comparing the concepts of subjectivity of the two thinkers, this paper reveals the dialectical relationship between reason and practice, universality and class nature, and explores the implications of these theories for contemporary moral philosophy and social practice. This paper argues that understanding the perspectives of Marx and Kant on subjectivity not only aids in deepening the understanding of moral philosophy but also holds significant importance for guiding the moral construction and practice of modern society. Through the analysis of the subjectivity theories of the two philosophers, this paper aims to provide theoretical resources for the development of contemporary moral philosophy and the guidance of social practice, and proposes directions for future research.

KEYWORDS

Marx; Kant; moral philosophy; subjectivity; reason; practice; universality; class nature

CITE THIS PAPER

Yan Bo, The Debate on Subjectivity in Marx and Kant's Moral Thought. Journal of Sociology and Ethnology (2024) Vol. 6: 48-54. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.23977/jsoce.2024.060407.

REFERENCES

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