Talk: “A Culture of Support and Merit: Promoting Independence without Stigmatizing Dependency”

Presentation:

“A Culture of Support and Merit: Promoting Independence without Stigmatizing Dependency”

Abstract:

In A Culture of Justice, I argue that a society has a shared, public obligation to foster self-respect and a sense of positive power in all people. Libertarians like Robert Nozick deny that there is a shared obligation to provide people the means to develop and exercise their self-respect, such as free and reduced lunch programs. While the libertarian is right to value the cultivation of independence, he is wrong, I argue, to stigmatize people who must depend upon government support. I propose a way to advance a culture of support and merit, promoting independence without stigmatizing dependency.

Looking forward to visiting Michigan State University’s Philosophy department, known for their publicly engaged work.

Here’s the flyer for the event.