"Groundwork for the Metaphysics of Morals" is a foundational text in moral philosophy written by Immanuel Kant in 1785. In this work, Kant explores the concept of morality and introduces the idea of the categorical imperative, a principle that guides ethical decision-making by emphasizing actions that can be universally applied. Kant argues that moral actions must be based on duty and reason rather than consequences or emotions. He seeks to establish a rational basis for ethics, asserting that true moral worth comes from acting out of respect for moral law, which he believes is inherent in all rational beings.