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Questions and Answers

What moral consideration is highlighted by the hypothetical case of generalized refusal to have children?

  • The moral status of non-human animals (correct)
  • The effectiveness of education
  • The role of technology in society
  • The impact on environmental policies

What metaphor is used to illustrate intergenerational equity in the content?

  • The Earth as a gift from ancestors
  • The Earth as an inheritance
  • The Earth as a borrowed property (correct)
  • The Earth as a shared resource

Who is referred to as advocating for a partnership across generations?

  • Burke (correct)
  • Native Americans
  • Hans Jonas
  • Gosseries

What is the main concern of intergenerational equity discussed in the content?

<p>Comparing treatments of environmental vs public matters (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect does Jonas refer to when discussing the alleged immorality?

<p>The actions that lead to outcomes affecting future generations (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following concepts is considered a new perspective on intergenerational obligations?

<p>Private law concepts (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the saying about treating the Earth well imply about our relationship with nature?

<p>Nature is a shared responsibility for current and future generations (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which author is noted for discussing the concept of treating the Earth as a loan?

<p>Burke (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the most popular definition of sustainable development?

<p>Development that satisfies current needs while ensuring future generations can meet theirs. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect does the text suggest is often overlooked in discussions on sustainability?

<p>A thorough examination of intergenerational justice. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should readers reflect on regarding their intuitions about justice?

<p>If their beliefs on justice differ in intragenerational and intergenerational contexts. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key component of intergenerational justice in the context of sustainability?

<p>Protecting the environment for the future generations. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What other normative dimensions should be considered in environmental matters according to the text?

<p>International or interspecific equity. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What challenges does the text imply may need a revision of general theories on justice?

<p>Conceptual challenges associated with environmental issues. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the text characterize the discussion of sustainability in relation to justice?

<p>It is overly simplistic and does not engage with its complexity. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is implied about the intuitions of readers concerning justice in intergenerational contexts?

<p>They rarely consider the long-term effects of their decisions. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is included in the interpretation of the second phase?

<p>Both physical and intellectual activities of prior generations (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Rawls propose regarding savings during the accumulation phase?

<p>Compulsory savings are justified despite potential inequalities (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is demanding savings from the first generation viewed as unfair?

<p>It could reduce wellbeing for the least well off (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the Lockean proviso authorize regarding savings?

<p>Dissavings only in the absence of any environmental change (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What concern does Rawls have about his obligation to save?

<p>It could exacerbate intergenerational inequalities (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what scenario would the prohibition on dissavings be adequate according to the content?

<p>When environmental change occurs due to previous generations (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the principle that Rawls defends differ from traditional egalitarian views?

<p>It accepts inequalities for the sake of savings (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What implication does climate change from historical emissions have in this context?

<p>It emphasizes a loss of fairness in generational wealth (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What obligation does the current generation have if future earthquakes will particularly affect the next generation?

<p>To save resources for the next generation. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which theory is argued to be most plausible for addressing intergenerational justice according to the content?

<p>Luck egalitarianism. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Brundtland's theory fail to address adequately according to the arguments presented?

<p>The potential effects of future natural disasters. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following approaches is not supported in the context of intergenerational justice according to the content?

<p>Indirect reciprocity. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which concept is mentioned as a consideration for future generations rather than immediate benefits?

<p>Biodiversity preservation. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the paper imply about the logic behind savings obligations for future generations?

<p>It arises from a different logic than utilitarianism. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the examples of goods that could potentially be squandered, creating a burden for future generations?

<p>Natural resources like oil and biodiversity. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the critiques made against Brundtland's theory in the content?

<p>It does not provide sufficient future predictions. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the central idea of luck egalitarianism regarding disadvantages?

<p>Compensation for disadvantages arises from circumstances beyond individuals' control. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to luck egalitarianism, how should society respond to disadvantages that are a result of personal choices?

<p>The individuals should bear the costs of their choices. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the prohibition on savings in luck egalitarianism?

<p>It ensures that resources are allocated to improve the least well-off. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following situations reflects a case where social responsibility is limited according to luck egalitarianism?

<p>People who engage in risky sports and require rescue support. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does luck egalitarianism perceive disadvantages related to congenital characteristics?

<p>They are considered inherent traits that warrant societal support. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of luck egalitarianism, what is the primary concern for the least well-off across generations?

<p>Guaranteeing they are better off than in a differently organized world. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the debate regarding hospital expenses for alcohol-induced coma indicate about luck egalitarianism?

<p>Individuals should be held accountable for costs stemming from their behaviors. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Brundtland's definition of sustainable development emphasize?

<p>Meeting present needs without compromising future needs. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the content, what are the three modalities discussed?

<p>Prohibition, authorisation, and obligation. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one key point highlighted regarding utilitarian and egalitarian theories?

<p>Both include generational savings obligations for different reasons. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the concept of 'dissavings prohibition' relate to?

<p>A restriction against consuming more than one saves. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is implied by the phrase 'once everyone's needs are covered' in the context?

<p>Further redistribution is unnecessary. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'basic needs' imply in the context of this discussion?

<p>A flexible interpretation that adapts to various societies. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is the standard approach to sustainable development according to Brundtland problematic for an egalitarian?

<p>It assumes no additional redistribution is needed after basic needs are met. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do egalitarians view the concept of needs in the steady state phase?

<p>They interpret the ample coverage of basic needs as sufficient. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Intergenerational Justice

The idea that future generations should have the same opportunities and resources as present generations.

Sustainable Development

Sustainable development aims to fulfill the needs of the present without risking the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

Intergenerational Equity

The concept of ensuring fairness and equity between different generations in the context of resource use and environmental impact.

Responsibility to Future Generations

The responsibility of current generations to consider the consequences of their actions on future generations.

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Brundtland Commission's Definition of Sustainable Development

Sustainable development is often defined as meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

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Environmental Sustainability

The idea that current generations should not deplete resources or damage the environment to the extent that it significantly hinders future generations from meeting their needs.

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Ethical Dimension of Sustainable Development

The ethical obligation of current generations to take into account the wellbeing and prosperity of future generations.

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Theories of Intergenerational Justice

Exploring the philosophical framework and principles behind intergenerational justice.

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Intergenerational responsibility

The idea that the current generation has a moral obligation to preserve the environment and resources for future generations.

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The 'Last Man' scenario

A hypothetical scenario where everyone decides not to have children, resulting in the extinction of humanity. It raises questions about the moral status of non-human animals.

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Intergenerational obligation through property rights

Moral obligations to future generations based on concepts of property rights and contracts, where the current generation is seen as borrowing from future generations.

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Native American saying on intergenerational obligation

"Treat the Earth well: it was not given to you by your parents, it was loaned to you by your children. We do not inherit the Earth from our Ancestors, we borrow it from our children." This Native American saying emphasizes our responsibility to future generations.

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Partnership between generations

A partnership between past, present, and future generations, emphasizing the interconnectedness of generations and their shared responsibility for the future.

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Comparing environmental issues to other intergenerational issues

Comparing the treatment of environmental issues with other intergenerational issues, like public debt, to ensure fairness and equity.

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Intergenerational dimension

The specific focus on the ethical consequences of our actions for future generations, distinct from other moral concerns.

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Obligation to Save in the Accumulation Phase

The principle of obligation to save during the accumulation phase, justified by the need to provide future generations with resources and opportunities.

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Prohibition on Dissavings

The concept that future generations should inherit an environment that is not significantly worse than what the current generation inherited.

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Accumulation Phase

The process of accumulating resources and capital that benefits future generations, but may require sacrifices from current generations.

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Interpretation Phase

The period when future generations inherit and utilize the accumulated resources and capital.

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Avoiding Dissavings Due to Current Generation's Actions

The idea that any deterioration to the environment inherited by future generations should be due to natural events or the actions of previous generations, not the current generation.

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Possible Unfairness of Compulsory Savings

The potential for future generations to be worse off if earlier generations sacrifice their own well-being to save resources.

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Egalitarian Concern for the Worst Off

The idea that future generations deserve to be as well-off as possible, but this principle might conflict with the obligation to save for their future.

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Luck Egalitarianism

A theory that argues that disadvantages stemming from factors beyond an individual's control, like genetics or social circumstances, should be compensated for by society.

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Intergenerational Improvement

A situation where future generations have the potential to be better off than they would have been in any other possible world.

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Choice-Based Responsibility

A theory where the burden of a person's choices should be borne by that individual, not society.

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Circumstances Beyond Control

Circumstances beyond an individual's control, such as genetics, social background, or other factors that are not chosen.

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Personal Choices

Actions or decisions that individuals make, often leading to consequences that they are responsible for.

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Intergenerational Perspective

A way to understand how fairness and responsibility apply between generations.

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Mountain Rescue (Example)

An example where the cost of rescuing individuals engaging in risky activities might be borne by the individuals themselves, not the entire society.

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Alcohol-Related Health Costs (Example)

An example where individuals who engage in risky health behaviors, like excessive drinking, might be responsible for the costs associated with their choices.

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Intergenerational Justice: Fairness Across Generations

The idea that we should prioritize fairness and equality across generations when it comes to resource allocation.

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Savings Obligation for Future Generations

A theory of intergenerational justice that states we are under an obligation to save for the future if we know there will be negative consequences for the next generation. It's not about maximizing happiness but about ensuring the future generation is not worse off than the present one.

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Intergenerational Egalitarianism

A type of intergenerational justice where the aim is to ensure everyone has enough to live a good life regardless of when they were born. This is known as 'luck egalitarianism'.

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Sustainable Development: A Balance for Generations

The idea that sustainability is about meeting present needs WITHOUT putting future generations at risk. It's a kind of intergenerational compromise.

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Brundtland's Sufficientarianism

A way of thinking about intergenerational justice that focuses on ensuring basic needs are met for future generations. It's less about equality and more about guaranteeing a minimum standard of living.

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Indirect Reciprocity: A Duty to Future Generations

A theory where individuals have a responsibility to contribute to the well-being of future generations. This is often based on reciprocity, meaning we have a duty to give back what we received.

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Transferring Resources to Future Generations

The act of transferring resources to future generations, either through saving or investing for the future.

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Future Uncertainty: The Challenges of Prediction

The idea that future generations may face different challenges or have different needs than present generations. This raises complex questions about how to plan for the future.

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Daly's Definition of Sustainable Development

A core principle of intergenerational ethics that states that the basic needs of the present should take precedence over luxury wants, while future generations' basic needs have priority over excessive present consumption.

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Basic Needs Coverage Theory

A theory that suggests that meeting everyone's basic needs is sufficient for fairness. Once this is achieved, there is no need for further redistribution, even if certain groups have more resources than others.

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Intergenerational Transmission of Resources

Describes how different theories of intergenerational justice view the management of resources, particularly in the context of sustainable development.

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Study Notes

Introduction

  • Theories of intergenerational justice are examined, focusing on savings/dissavings and prohibition/authorization/obligation.
  • The author provides a synoptic view of different theories, including indirect reciprocity, mutual advantage, utilitarian, Lockean, egalitarian, and sufficientarian approaches.
  • The paper highlights key differences between egalitarian and sufficientarian interpretations of sustainability.
  • The author addresses environmental and resource depletion problems and the need for normative rules concerning individual behavior and social organization.
  • New concepts like sustainable development, ecological debt, degrowth, and ecological footprint are discussed and their relation to normative issues.

Tool Box

  • Environmental issues require careful consideration of existing conceptual tools before developing new ones.
  • The metaphor of an uninhabited mountain hut with associated rules (e.g., keeping the premises clean) can be a starting point for theorizing about intergenerational equity.
  • Concepts of private law (property, contracts) are helpful in understanding obligations.
  • Native American proverb ("Treat the Earth well") and Lockean proviso ("as much and as good left for others") are relevant for understanding obligations to future generations.
  • Consideration of various philosophical theories of justice and their application are explored in the intergenerational context, contrasting similarities and differences between various intuitions.

Indirect Reciprocity

  • Indirect reciprocity theory (Brian Barry, de Shalit, Gosseries) posits an obligation to return benefits received from prior generations to future generations.
  • Descending reciprocity involves an obligation from current to future generations based on prior intergenerational transfers.
  • Substantive maxim: Current generation should pass on a capital equivalent to what it inherited.
  • Indirect reciprocity can justify obligations to future generations who have never interacted directly with the current generation.

Mutual Advantage

  • This theory suggests that cooperation is rational given potential gains.
  • Intergenerational cooperation is challenging due to the absence of intergenerational overlap.
  • Benefits must be mutual and cooperation must be sustainable across generations.

Utilitarianism

  • Utilitarianism prioritizes overall well-being, not distribution.
  • In the intergenerational context, a focus on maximizing the aggregate welfare of all generations is crucial.
  • Challenges include ensuring the least well-off in each generation are not disadvantaged.
  • Diminishing marginal utility and social discount rates can mitigate criticisms, though uncertainty about future generations poses difficulties.

Lockean Proviso

  • Neo-Lockean/libertarian theories emphasize self-ownership and external resource rights, potentially including first-come-first-served or similar rules.
  • A "Lockean Proviso" modifies principles to ensure sufficient amounts of resources remain for future generations.
  • Several interpretations exist, addressing natural resource modifications and individual intentions.

Rawlsian Egalitarianism

  • Rawls acknowledges utilitarianism's difficulties and advocates a two-stage model.
  • Accumulation phase: prioritizes savings for building institutions and protecting basic freedoms.
  • Steady state phase follows, focused on maximizing the well-being of the least advantaged in each generation.
  • Basic liberties take priority over distributive justice.

Egalitarianism revisited

  • Rawls’s theory faces objections concerning obligations to past generations or potential sacrifices for future generations for intergenerational equity.
  • A fair intergenerational world requires prohibiting both savings and dissavings to maximize the well-being of the least advantaged in all generations.

Brundtland's Sufficientarianism

  • The Brundtland definition of sustainable development (meeting present needs without compromising future generations) is not sufficient to prevent intergenerational injustices.
  • The prioritization of everyone's basic needs over luxury implies that no more resources are produced beyond satisfying everyone's needs.

Conclusion

  • The paper presents a synopsis of various intergenerational justice theories, highlighting their diverse assumptions and implications.
  • Key issues such as savings, dissavings, prohibitions, and authorizations are explored within each theory.
  • The paper concludes by emphasizing the multifaceted nature of intergenerational justice and the need for continuous research and deliberation across philosophies.

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Theories of Intergenerational Justice: A Synopsis PDF

Description

This quiz explores moral considerations, metaphors, and key concepts related to intergenerational equity and sustainable development. It examines various authors' viewpoints and invites reflection on our obligations to future generations. Test your understanding of these critical issues and how they shape our relationship with the Earth.

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