Theoretical analysis reveals evils of devils may stem from self-interest under Kantian rationality.
This paper focuses on Kant’s Towards Perpetual Peace famous statement according to which the problem of the State can be solved even for a race of devils, at least if they possess understanding. Its aim is to show that, despite Kant’s phrasing, understood as possessing the power of understanding alone, a devil would not be evil, nor accountable for his acts. A substantive account of this devil’s rationality can and shall be developed on the basis of Kant’s approach to practical agency in general. In this sense, understood as a rational being capable of end-setting under practical laws, a devil would have to be taken as an egotistical being who systematically acts out of self-interest. Under this presupposition, and at least from a juridical point of view in Kant, the hypothesis of a nation of devils offers a more interesting case for analysis.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Gehad Marcon Bark (2025) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: