Essay #2

Consider the following passage from CPR B-143.

The manifold given in a sensible intuition is necessarily subject to the original synthetic unity of apperception, because in no other way is the unity of intuition possible (§17).  But the act of understanding by which the manifold of given representations (be they intuitions or concepts) is brought under one apperception, is the logical function of judgment (cf. §19).  All the manifold, therefore, so far as it is given in a single empirical intuition, is determined in respect of one of the logical functions of judgment, and is thereby brought into one consciousness.  Now the categories are just these functions of judgment, in so far as they are employed in determination of the manifold of a given intuition (cf. §13).  Consequently, the manifold in a given intuition is necessarily subject to the categories.

Write a six to seven page paper (1800-2100 words) in which you explain all of the above passage.  What is Kant trying to establish in the above passage?  Does imagination have any role to play in establishing the above points?  If so, explain how so.  If not, why not?  Be sure to answer these questions somewhere in your paper.

The paper should have one inch margins all the way around.  A title page is optional.  Since I mark blind, please do not place your name anywhere on the paper, but be sure to place your student number on the first page.

I wish you good luck and an enjoyable philosophical experience.

Due date: November 12, 2002     Return to Kant Homepage