Short description:

Examines affirmative action by exploring its ethical, metaphysical, epistemological, and axiological dimensions. Covers history, future, and redressal of past wrongs. Provides a fresh and holistic view of affirmative action’s moral implications and societal impact.

Long description:

The topic of affirmative action has long been one of the most complex and contentious issues in modern public discourse, touching on themes of justice, equality, race, and socioeconomic disparity. This new book provides a comprehensive philosophical examination of affirmative action by exploring its ethical, metaphysical, epistemological, and axiological dimensions. By delving into these varied frameworks, the author offers a balanced, thoughtful analysis of the arguments both for and against affirmative action.

The chapters in this book examine affirmative action through multiple lenses, including the historical injustices that necessitate it, the forward-looking benefits it brings to societies, and the backward-looking duty of redressing past wrongs. Also examined are philosophical positions that challenge the ethical basis of affirmative action, giving attention to meritocratic objections and concerns over reverse discrimination.

The author takes a unique approach by meticulously dissecting the multifaceted debate surrounding affirmative action. The books novelty lies in the comprehensive analysis of divergent philosophical perspectives, consolidating arguments for and against this policy. This comprehensive presentation offers a nuanced understanding of the ethical complexities involved, weaving together insights from proponents and critics alike. By synthesizing these diverse viewpoints, the book provides a fresh and holistic view of affirmative actions’ moral implications and societal impact.

The Ethics of Affirmative Action: Balancing Equality and Fairness serves as a valuable resource for academics, researchers, and anyone interested in grappling with the complexities of affirmative action. Its in-depth analysis, comprehensive coverage, and nuanced exploration make it an indispensable contribution to the discourse surrounding equality, justice, and ethical policymaking.

Table of Contents:

Preface 1. The Depressed Class 2. Affirmative Action: Morally Relevant and Irrelevant Characteristics 3. Affirmative Action: An Epistemological Inquiry 4. Affirmative Action: A Metaphysical Inquiry 5. Affirmative Action: An Axiological Inquiry 6. An Inquiry into the Nature of Arguments for and Against Affirmative Action Policy 7. Affirmative Action: Forward-Looking and Backward-Looking Arguments 8. Protagonists Perspectives of Affirmative Action 9. Opponents Views on Affirmative Action 10. A Philosophical Defense of Affirmative Action: Responses to Critics Index