"The Need for More Than Justice" Discussion Questions

Annette C. Baier
  1. At the center of Baier’s paper are two conceptions of society, one that emphasizes justice and another that emphasizes care. Compare and contrast these two conceptions of society. Which one seems like it would provide a better society? Provide reasons for your answer?
  2. Baier critiques the Kantian conception of autonomy. What is this conception of autonomy, and how does Baier critique it? Use her critique to try to develop an alternative conception of autonomy that takes seriously an ethics of care?
  3. What are the four differences Baier suggests between a conception of society that emphasizes justice and a conception of society that emphasizes care? Do you think the way she characterizes the former is fair? Why or why not?
  4. What is a contemporary political issue that Baier’s framework might help illuminate? Would putting an ethics of care at the center of our society help with this issue or make it worse?
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