Routledge Kantian Theory and Human Rights - Political Theory

Human rights and the legal bodies that protect them are now fundamental parts of our moral and political lives. As the importance of human rights grows, understanding their philosophical roots becomes more important than ever. Many theorists suggest that the foundation of these rights can be found in the philosophy of Immanuel Kant, specifically his principle of viewing humans as ends in themselves. This book from the Routledge Innovations in Political Theory series addresses a significant gap in current academic study. While many assume a connection between Kantian thought and human rights, few works explore how these rights function specifically within a Kantian framework. This volume brings together various scholars to examine these connections directly. By focusing on the center of Kant's theory, this text provides a deep look into the philosophical foundations of modern rights. It is an essential resource for students, legal professionals, and political theorists looking to understand the relationship between classical philosophy and contemporary legal protections.