the text (we're about to cover)explores a central ethical tenet often associated with kantian philosophy, namely the notion that moral duty is primarily to oneself, rooted in integrity and truthfulness. while traditionally kant's ethics emphasize duty to others through the categorical imperative, this interpretation suggests that self-consistencybeing true to ones own naturesupersedes any external obligations. the reference to immanuel kant reflects his struggle with truth, notably when faced with the temptation to lie. it implies that kants earlier ethical intuitions, perhaps before formalizing his theories, acknowledged the paramount importance of remaining truthful to oneself above all else. the mention of friedrich nietzsche and max stirner points toward existential and individualist philosophies, which also emphasize the importance of self-authenticity over societal or religious norms. nietzsche, in particular, advocates for the concept of self-overcoming and the creation of one's values, rejecting imposed morality. the author then highlights henrik ibsen, particularly in "brand" and "peer gynt". in brand (1866), the titular character insists on absolute commitment to ideals, reflecting an extreme form of kantian duty to self-truth. peer gynt (1867), conversely, deals with the consequences of self-deception, where peer gynts failure to remain true to himself leads to existential crises. both works grapple with the moral consequences of staying true to one's essence.
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