The Decent Society
Most recent political theorists have concentrated on requirements for a just society, but the Israeli philosopher Margalit has a different idea. He asks what constitutes a decent society, "one whose institutions do not humiliate people." Margalit carefully explores the connections between decency and concepts akin to it, such as self-respect, honor, and integrity. He then asks, "What aspect of human beings, if any, justifies respecting human beings just because they are human?" His response stresses the ability of people to make changes in their lives. Having defined and supported his view of a decent society, Margalit assesses its relevance for social issues such as welfare, employment, and punishment. Some of his policy conclusions seem questionable, but on the whole Margalit has produced an illuminating study.?David Gordon, Bowling Green State Univ., OhioCopyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.