Question

What does Kant mean when he says, “Even if… this will is entirely lacking in power to carry out its intentions; if by its utmost effort it still accomplishes nothing, and only good will is left; even then it would still shine like a jewel for its own sake as something which has its full value in itself”?

Answer 1

By this Kant means that nothing at all can detract from the goodness of a good will, not even bad consequences, and not even its complete powerlessness. He also believes that acts in order to cater to good-will are only morally correct. Acts out of selfish interest or for affection for others aren't. This then becomes the universal law or principle wherein anyone in the similar circumstances would respond in the similar way. This is because the act in itself is conducted out of Good will and not out of a personal motive per se. Kant therefore is a firm believer that morally correct acts are the ones which are done out of Good will perspective. All the situations must be looked at from the same lens in order to adhere to this & serve as a universal principle.