Special ties and natural duties
Article Abstract:
The theory of acquired obligation and the theory of natural duty are discussed. Focus is given to the latter to support the laws and institutions of a just state. Rebuttals to this theory are in the form of two major objections. The 'special allegiance' objection states that the theory does not explain the character of special allegiance to society. The 'application' objection centers on the failure of the theory to explain how a particular institution becomes the one to which an individual owes obedience and support to.
Publication Name: Philosophy & Public Affairs
Subject: Political science
ISSN: 0048-3915
Year: 1993
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Don't stop thinking about tomorrow: two paradoxes about duties to future generations
Article Abstract:
A paradox about the fate of two populations is analyzed. In the paradox, a choice must be made between the first population, which has a higher average level of well-being than the second, and the second population, which has more people than the first resulting in a higher total amount of well-being. It is argued both scenarios are plausible and cannot be dismissed as trivial. An alternative paradox is also developed which attempts to eliminate the moral difficulty created by the first.
Publication Name: Philosophy & Public Affairs
Subject: Political science
ISSN: 0048-3915
Year: 1996
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Acts and outcomes: a reply to Boonin-Vail. (response to David Boonin-Vail in this issue, p. 267)
Article Abstract:
An analysis of a paradox involving the fate of two populations is evaluated. In the paradox, a choice must be made between the first population, which has a higher quality of life compared to the second, and the second population, which has more people than the first and living a lesser quality of life. It is argued that contrary to what the analysis claims, this paradox cannot be solved by defending the Population Choice Principle.
Publication Name: Philosophy & Public Affairs
Subject: Political science
ISSN: 0048-3915
Year: 1996
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- Abstracts: Humanity: our priority now and always: response to "Principles, politics and humanitarian action."(article by Thomas G. Weiss in this issue, p. 1)
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- Abstracts: Teach both the "useful" and the "ornamental." (response to article by Brack Brown in this issue, p. 963)(Special Issue on Public Policy and Administration: The Minnowbrook Perspective, part 2)
- Abstracts: Socialist societies and the emancipation of women: the case of Cuba. Samir Amin's "Maldevelopment:" a feminist critique
- Abstracts: The secretary-general's representatives. The other lesson of Rwanda: mediators sometimes do more damage than good