In the 1785 publication "Groundwork of the Metaphysics of Morals," Kant first articulates the principles of a universalist ethics of autonomy, whose influence remains unbroken to this day. Even in the transition from common to philosophical reason, the main ideas can be found: Ethics is not primarily about the good life and happiness, nor is it initially concerned with the outcomes of actions; rather, the subject of moral appreciation is intentions and maxims. What is good is what applies to all rational beings, as it is willed by them as autonomous and rational beings. The text is short, simply structured, and written in an understandable manner. It thus serves as an introduction to Kant's ethics while simultaneously laying the groundwork for all the essential thoughts of his practical philosophy.