Concepts without perceptions are empty; perceptions without concepts are blind.
¶ (Attributed)
Quotations by ...
Immanuel Kant (1724-1804) German philosopher
It is not God's will merely that we should be happy, but that we should make ourselves happy.
¶ (Attributed)
There is, therefore, only one categorical imperative. It is: Act only according to that maxim by which you can at the same time will that it should become a universal law.
¶ Foundations of the Metaphysics of Morals, Sec. 2 (1785)
trans. Lewis W. Beck (1969) Alternate translations:
- I ought never to act except in such a way that I could also will that my maxim should become a universal law.
- Act only on that maxim which you can at the same time will that it should become a universal law.
- Act as if the maxim of thy action were to become by thy will a universal law of nature.
- So act that your principle of action might safely be made a law for the whole world.
- May you live your life as if the maxim of your actions were to become universal law.
- Live your life as though your every act were to become a universal law.
- Do not feel forced to act, as you're only willing to act according to your own universal laws. And that's good. For only willful acts are universal. And that's your maxim.
About WIST
WIST is my collection of quotations I find meaningful, moving, amusing (intended or not), well-phrased, and/or to which I just say I "Wish I'd Said That." But just because I quote it here doesn't mean I actually agree with it. If you have any comments, corrections, or suggestions, please don't hesitate to
Quote Search
Use the Fast Search search box to look for text in quotations or their sources.
To search for an author, go to the All Authors page. Or you can also use the custom Google search below for quotes and authors:
Quotes by Author
WIST Info
Powered by
Movable Type 4.01
Movable Type 4.01