In honor of Immanuel Kant’s 300th Anniversary, "The Point Magazine" has invited Sergio Tenenbaum to reflect on Kant’s enduring influence on contemporary thought.

Tenenbaum, professor at UTM and a past fellow of the Israel Institute for Advanced Studies and part of the "Practical and Theoretical Rationality: A Comparative Study" research group, offers profound insights into Kant’s understanding of human nature and morality.

In his reflection, Tenenbaum delves into a passage from Kant’s work "Religion Within the Boundaries of Mere Reason" (6:32), where Kant grapples with the complex nature of evil and human responsibility. Kant posits that evil is an inherent propensity within every individual, rooted in human nature yet freely chosen. This paradoxical notion challenges conventional wisdom and raises profound questions about the nature of moral agency.

Tenenbaum acknowledges the apparent tension in Kant’s argument, wherein evil is both ingrained in human nature and a product of individual choice. However, he finds Kant’s insight into the human condition deeply compelling. According to Tenenbaum, Kant’s exploration highlights the inherent struggle between lofty moral ideals and the reality of human fallibility.

Moreover, Tenenbaum suggests that Kant’s analysis extends beyond philosophical inquiry to resonate with contemporary challenges. He argues that the pursuit of moral excellence necessitates an acknowledgment of the inherent tension between aspiring towards ideals and confronting personal failures. Denying the unattainability of moral perfection leads to arrogance, while absolving oneself of responsibility perpetuates moral complacency.

The full article from "The Point Magazine" featuring Sergio Tenenbaum's reflection can be accessed here: https://thepointmag.com/examined-life/an-immeasurable-field/