Anderson, What is the point of equality?

Question 1

Anderson says that luck egalitarianism focuses too much on ____

Answer 1

Compensation (for bad luck)

Question 2

What does Anderson critique?

Answer 2

• Critiques recent egalitarian thought: many egalitarian theories are subject to criticism about rewarding envy, irresponsibility, and laziness. Focus has shifted to compensating bad luck rather than addressing systematic oppression (which is often what leads to that bad luck)
• Critiques luck egalitarianism, which blames individuals for their misfortunes, denying them support unless they are deemed deserving, and is intrusive and controlling, as it requires judging personal choices, dictating who is responsible for their own suffering

Question 3

What does Anderson focus on as an alternative?

Answer 3

• Focuses on ending oppression rather than just redistributing wealth.
• Argues that egalitarian principles should guide collective decision-making rather than rely on individual market choices – the economy should be understood as a system of joint co-production

Question 4

What is luck egalitarianism?

Answer 4

Theory of distributive justice that argues for equality by neutralizing the effects of “brute luck” (unchosen circumstances) while allowing for inequalities resulting from “option luck”