The Systematic Significance of Gratitude in Kant's Practical Philosophy

Àlex Mumbrú Mora

doi:10.5209/kant.99952

The Systematic Significance of Gratitude in Kant's Practical Philosophy

Àlex Mumbrú Mora Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0397-9504

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5209/kant.99952

Keywords: Gratitude, Moral Progress, Vulnerability, Interdependence, Global Justice, Intergenerational Justice

Abstract

This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the systematic significance of gratitude in Kant’s practical philosophy. It argues that gratitude fosters moral progress by recognizing both beneficiary and benefactor as ends in themselves. It examines how ingratitude creates an epistemic barrier that obscures our inherent vulnerability and the interdependent nature of personal autonomy. The reflection on gratitude also enables us to engage issues such as global distributive justice, collective ownership of natural resources, and intergenerational justice. Therefore, gratitude emerges as a crucial concept in Kant’s practical philosophy.

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Published

2025-07-14

How to Cite

Mumbrú Mora À. (2025). The Systematic Significance of Gratitude in Kant’s Practical Philosophy. Con-Textos Kantianos. International Journal of Philosophy, 21, 31-40. https://doi.org/10.5209/kant.99952