Economic Justice

This course explores philosophical theories of economic inequality. Some authors claim that economic inequality is beneficial for communities and compatible with well-reflected norms of social justice; others are critical of economic inequality, suggesting that uneven distribution of wealth is inherently unjust or harmful and creates political instability. We will first look into some classic positions on the topic (Plato, Smith, Marx, Rawls) and then explore contemporary philosophical debates on intergenerational justice, poverty, duties of aid, and reparations.