Kantianism is a philosophical approach developed by the German thinker Immanuel Kant in the 18th century. It emphasizes the importance of reason and moral duty, suggesting that individuals should act according to principles that can be universally applied. Kant believed that moral actions are not based on consequences but on whether they adhere to a set of ethical rules, known as the categorical imperative. At the heart of Kantianism is the idea that humans possess inherent dignity and should be treated as ends in themselves, not merely as means to an end. This perspective encourages respect for others and promotes a sense of moral responsibility in our actions and decisions.