Prolegomena By Immanuel Kant Analysis

German philosopher Immanuel Kant, uses his writing Prolegomena to discuss the question, is the study of metaphysics possible and what do we gain from studying or practicing it? Kant evaluates this question by discussing what distinguishes metaphysics from other natural sciences and mathematics. The many sections of this book explore this discussion and provide the necessary arguments to solve this question. Kant comes to a conclusion on the study of metaphysics and ultimately determines that it is a form of pseudoscience, and does not provide us with knowledge. This conclusion challenges the previous understanding and teachings of philosophers of the “school metaphysics” including teachings of Baumgarten. Kant’s criticisms determine that while metaphysics is not a pure science, the critique of metaphysics can be valuable.
Kant begins by discussing what the distinguishing feature, “the differentia it has in common with no other science” is, for metaphysics (Kant 15). To Kant, for a study to be a science, it is necessary that it can be distinguished and …show more content…
Although Kant challenges the nature of school metaphysics and claims that it is not a true science, he argues that the critique is more valuable as a study. Using this comparison, the critique is closer to true science, like chemistry or astronomy, whereas school metaphysics is similar to alchemy or astrology. To Kant, school metaphysics is a form a pseudoscience that does not provide knowledge, yet claims to be a true science. For metaphysics to be established as a true science, it is necessary for a critique of pure reason must systematically investigate the role of a priori concepts in understanding. This is how Kant believes that the critique can be closer to chemistry and astronomy than school metaphysics