On the Old Saw

"The old objection to philosophy that it is 'impractical' seems to have as one of its best targets Kant's philosophy. In this essay, Kant responds to this objection in the name of philosophy in general and in his own name as a philosopher whose thoughts were and still are commonly believed to be singularly applicable to the realities of politics and everyday life. This essay is of prime importance in reaching a just estimate of the contribution philosophy, including Kantian philosophy, can make to the practical solution of human problems."--Lewis White Beck. Unlike the other animals, Kant reminds us, human beings must decide how they will live their lives. They therefore ask for a guide to action, a set of principles--a theory.