Question

Explain the distinction Kant makes between guardians and minors. Who are these two groups and what sets them apart from one another? Your answer should be at least one hundred words.

Answer 1

Kant's distinction between guardians and minors is based on the propensity of people to dwell in their own immaturity and let others take care of them. Both guardians and minors are victims of this propensity; only, they are placed on the opposite poles. Neither guardians nor minors dare to think for themselves. However, minors almost entirely give up their intellectual potential, indulging in their own laziness of the mind. They rely on different types of guardians. For example, priests are the guardians of their souls; physicians are the guardians of their bodies; politicians are the guardians of their social order, etc. Basically, they are lulled in their comfortable positions of non-thinkers. We have to say, though, that Kant doesn't judge on people for being one or the other. He just proposes that they can rise above those passive positions with the help of enlightenment.