Distributive Justice and the Capability for Effective Autonomy
Distributive Justice and the Capability for Effective Autonomy
This chapter attempts to derive some key normative principles inherent in a Kantian scheme of distributive justice. To do so, this chapter looks at Kant's conception of external freedom and social welfare, relating them to a cosmopolitan concern for global justice. It argues that Kant's freedom of autonomy (co-legislation) demands a robust theory of distributive justice in order to provide a political environment that supports the effective autonomy of individuals in a hypothetical kingdom of ends. The chapter further explores a possible relationship with Martha Nussbaum's capability theory, suggesting that Kant's distributive principles might be best expressed through a form of the capability approach. Lastly, the chapter draws connections between contemporary cosmopolitan arguments for global justice and Kant's overall cosmopolitan concerns.
Keywords: distributive justice, Kant, external freedom, social welfare, global justice, effective autonomy, Martha Nussbaum, capability theory
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