Sovereign Virtue
Sovereign Virtue
Ronald Dworkin
Matthew Yglesias
I really like this book a lot. - Matthew Yglesias
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Sovereign Virtue

Sovereign Virtue: The Theory and Practice of Equality

Ronald Dworkin
By
Ronald Dworkin
3.8
127
ratings on Goodreads

In "Sovereign Virtue," Ronald Dworkin embarks on a profound exploration of equality, challenging the contemporary political landscape's retreat from this foundational ideal. With a sharp, analytical eye, Dworkin unravels the intricate tapestry of democratic sovereignty, asserting that a legitimate government must inherently treat all its citizens with equal respect and concern. This bold assertion serves as the bedrock for his argument, compellingly drawing on two fundamental humanist principles: the equal importance of every human life’s flourishing and the individual’s responsibility in shaping their destiny. Through these lenses, Dworkin constructs a persuasive case for understanding equality not as a mere political slogan, but as an essential virtue that demands egalitarian constraints on the distribution of wealth within a society. Dworkin’s work transcends theoretical discourse, grounding his thesis in the fiery crucible of contemporary debates. From the equitable distribution of healthcare to the contentious arenas of campaign finance reform and genetic engineering, he navigates complex issues with a clarity and depth that illuminate the practical implications of his egalitarian vision. "Sovereign Virtue" emerges not only as a critique of political complacency but as a beacon of hope, arguing convincingly that equality, freedom, and individual responsibility are not conflicting ideals but harmonious elements of a just society. In this landmark book, Dworkin challenges us to reconsider the essence of our political commitments, offering a path forward where equal concern and respect form the cornerstone of democratic governance.

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Released
2000
1 Jan
Length
528
Pages

1

recommendations

recommendation

I really like this book a lot. - Matthew Yglesias
The auction proposes what the envy test in fact assumes, that the true measure of the social resources devoted to the life of one person is fixed by asking how important, in fact, that resource is for others. [The auction] insists that the cost, measured in that way, figures in each person's sense of what is rightly his and in each person's judgment of what life he should lead, given that command of justice.
— Ronald Dworkin, Sovereign Virtue

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