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The Philosophy of Law, Part I, Chapter 3

Immanuel Kant · 1797

A chapter from Kant's own work on legal philosophy, discussing acquisition of property through courts of justice.

Kant's own writing on law and property, showing his thinking on justice and rights late in his career.

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What it is

This is a text written by Immanuel Kant in 1797, part of his work The Philosophy of Law. This chapter discusses how acquisition of property is conditioned by the sentence of a public court, exploring ideas of natural and distributive justice.

Why it matters

This source is Kant's own writing, showing his thinking on law, justice, and rights late in his life. It reveals how Kant extended his philosophical system beyond ethics and metaphysics into questions of property and legal institutions.

Look closer

  • What does Kant mean by distinguishing 'Natural Right' from statutory law?
  • Why might Kant think courts are necessary even for rights that can be known through reason alone?
  • How does this legal writing connect to Kant's broader ideas about morality and reason?

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