Abstract
This paper interprets the philosophy of Kant as a transcendental ontology of finite consciousness that takes seriously the question of metaphysics. The point of departure of the Transcendental Dialectic of the Critique of Pure Reason shows that metaphysics is a fundamental need of reason , but that metaphysical reason produces knowledge only “apparent ” ( Schein ) or illusion. The task of criticism is therefore to deconstruct this ” appearance ” and to prepare the conditions of a justified metaphysical statement, which can only be guaranteed by practical reason.