The thesis of this essay is that equal opportunity (EO) “strictly dominates” (in the game-theoretic sense) reparations. That is, (1) all the ways reparations would make our world more just would also be achieved under EO; (2) EO would make our world more just in ways reparations cannot; and (3) reparations would create injustices which EO would avoid. Further, (4) EO has important practical advantages over reparations. These include economic efficiency, feasibility, and long-term impact. Supporters of reparations should abandon that ideal to support equal opportunity instead.
“Equal Opportunity, Not Reparations” in the Handbook of Equality of Opportunity (2024)
“Equal Opportunity, Not Reparations” in the Handbook of Equality of Opportunity (2024)
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