Desert Collapses: Why No One Deserves Anything

Desert is a concept in moral philosophy that suggests that people do not deserve anything, regardless of their actions or character. This book challenges the idea of desert and argues that people deserve good things (credit) when they are good people or do desirable things, and bad things (discredit) when they are bad people or do undesirable things. The author's argument against desert rests on three claims: there is no adequate theory of what desert is, there is no justification for desert, and there is no plausible account of what people deserve. This book will be of interest to researchers and advanced students working in ethics and political philosophy.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 29 January 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

People often regard the desert as an integral part of our moral landscape, shaping our thoughts and perceptions about crucial realms such as love, punishment, and work. In this thought-provoking book, the author makes a bold assertion: no one deserves anything. If this claim holds true, then the claims that people deserve both general and specific things crumble under scrutiny.

At the core of the desert lies the concept of moral credit or discredit. Individuals earn good things (credit) when they exhibit virtuous behavior or engage in desirable actions. These desirable actions can range from morally upright deeds to acts that are morally good or virtuous. Conversely, individuals deserve bad things (discredit) when they engage in immoral behavior or perform undesirable actions. Certain theories posit that people deserve credit in broad terms, such as a good life. On the other hand, other theories suggest that people deserve credit in specific terms, such as specific incomes, jobs, punishments, relationships, or reputations.

The author's argument against desert is grounded in three compelling claims:

Firstly, there exists no adequate theory of what desert truly is. The concept of desert remains elusive and lacks a clear and comprehensive understanding.

Secondly, even if there were a satisfactory theory of desert, there would be no justification for desert. The mere existence of a theory does not automatically confer moral worth or entitlement.

Thirdly, even if there were an adequate theory of desert and something could ground it, there is no plausible account of what people deserve. The notion of deservingness is complex and multifaceted, and it requires a thorough examination of ethical principles and values.

Desert Collapses will appeal to scholars and advanced students engaged in the fields of ethics and political philosophy. It offers a thought-provoking exploration of the boundaries of moral responsibility and the implications of the author's assertions. Through rigorous analysis and compelling arguments, this book provides valuable insights into the complex dynamics of moral judgment and the ethical implications of our actions.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367758172