This lecture discusses key ideas from the 20th and 21st century philosopher and moral theorist, Alasdair MacIntyre's essay "Plain Persons and Moral Theory" It focuses upon the relationships outlined between Goods, Rules, and Virtues -- as well as practices, inclinations, and the natural law -- in that text.

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You can find MacIntyre's essay "Plain Persons and Moral Theory" here - https://amzn.to/3KUbXVf

Alasdair MacIntyre, Plain Persons - Goods, Rules, and Virtues - Sadler's Lectures

This first lesson in the Kantian Existential Psychology series introduces students to the philosophical roots of autonomy, moral reasoning, and self-regulation. Drawing from Immanuel Kant’s Enlightenment-era philosophy, RJ Starr explores how Kant’s ideas around duty, the categorical imperative, and human dignity continue to shape modern psychological theory—from moral development to intrinsic motivation. Listeners will gain foundational insight into how rational autonomy connects to self-determination theory, ethical behavior, and the deeper questions of what it means to live with purpose and integrity.

Lesson 1 Kantian Foundations – Autonomy, Morality, and the Psychology of Duty

In this lesson, Professor RJ Starr explores the powerful intersection between Kantian ethics and existential psychology. What happens when rational morality meets personal meaning? How do structure and subjectivity work together in shaping behavior, identity, and emotional growth? From autonomy to authenticity, this episode highlights how two distinct traditions converge to offer a richer understanding of human motivation and the ethical complexity of choice. Ideal for psychology students, clinicians, and anyone interested in how philosophy shapes the inner life.

Lesson 3 Where They Meet – Points of Convergence Between Kant and Existentialism

In this final lesson of our four-part series, we explore the philosophical tensions—and potential integrations—between Kant’s rational morality and the existentialist emphasis on personal meaning and freedom. While Kant offers a structured guide to ethics rooted in reason and duty, existentialism invites us into the messier terrain of lived experience, emotional complexity, and moral ambiguity. For psychology students and professionals alike, this lesson provides a rich framework for understanding how these traditions diverge—and how, together, they can form a more complete understanding of autonomy, decision-making, and psychological growth. We conclude with a synthesis: Kantian existentialism as a lens for therapeutic practice, moral development, and human well-being.

Lesson 4 Conflict and Integration – Divergences and the Modern Synthesis

Professor RJ Starr is an academic psychologist, educator, and author exploring the inner life through the lens of emotional intelligence, regulation, and self-awareness.
This SoundCloud page features original short-form audio recordings—thoughtful reflections designed to help listeners navigate their emotions, relationships, and personal growth with clarity and maturity.

To explore more of my work, visit https://profrjstarr.com

I'm that YouTube Philosophy Guy! Find more than 3,000 videos in my main channel.  Support my video and podcast work!  https://www.patreon.com/sadler or https://www.buymeacoffee.com/A4quYdWoM

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New tracks tagged #moral development