Which philosophers are typically associated with the concept of Moral Individualism?

Moral Individualism emphasizes the moral importance and agency of individuals, asserting that individual rights and inner values should guide ethical behavior and social arrangements. The philosophers typically associated with this notion—John Locke, Immanuel Kant, and John Rawls—each contribute significantly to the understanding of individual rights and the ethical frameworks surrounding them.

Locke is known for his theories regarding natural rights, particularly life, liberty, and property, which establish a foundation for individual autonomy and the role of government in protecting these rights. Kant introduced the concept of the categorical imperative, which emphasizes treating individuals as ends in themselves rather than as means to an end, reinforcing the importance of individual moral agency. Rawls is recognized for his theory of justice, advocating for fair institutions that respect individual rights while ensuring equitable treatment in society.

In contrast, the other groups of philosophers tend to focus more on collectivist or holistic perspectives. The figures in the first option, for example, are more concerned with the nature of justice and existence from a more societal or communal viewpoint. Meanwhile, the third option includes philosophers who explore the interplay between individual freedom and societal constraints but often from a more deterministic or social contract perspective. The last group addresses broader social dynamics and critiques, which do not primarily center on individual