KANT AND HEGEL: A DISPUTE ON FORMALISM

Abstract

ABSTRACT: The present essay addresses the disputed critique of Hegel to Kant. From the Hegelian point of view, the Kantian moral (more precisely the categorical imperative) is abstract and empty, remaining only in the second ambit of the unfolding of freedom, lacking, therefore, objectivity. Thus, I intend to demonstrate, from synthetic grounds of the categorical imperative, that Kant’s intention is to seek the principle of morality from the criteria of necessity and universality. In this way, Hegel will accuse Kant of following formalistic criteria and, for that reason, being able to comprehend any content. This is not concurrent with the Kantian perspective, since the categorical imperative is a criterium of practical reasoning for every imperfect will (rational and sensitive), not allowing for the submission of any maxim. KEY WORDS: Kant. Hegel. Categorical imperative. Morality. Formalism. Maxim.