Nature of Desert Claims: Rethinking What it Means to Get One's Due

Kevin Kinghorn's book explores the concept of deservingness and offers an alternative model of desert that challenges the received wisdom on the structure of desert claims. He argues that our plea for deserved treatment is linked to the universal human concern for a shared narrative and seeks healthy relationships within a community.

Format: Hardback
Length: 260 pages
Publication date: 20 May 2021
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

The pervasive belief that positive and negative treatment of others can be justified based on their perceived deservingness permeates our daily conversations. However, the concept of deservingness remains elusive and complex. In his insightful book, Kevin Kinghorn delves into the origins of this concept and explores why individuals feel a profound sense of injustice when outcomes are undeserved. Kinghorn conducts a thorough investigation, seeking to uncover the common thread underlying various everyday desert claims. Through this exploration, he presents an alternative model of desert that challenges the prevailing understanding of these claims. Ultimately, Kinghorn argues that our plea for deserved treatment is intertwined with the universal human desire for a shared narrative, as we strive for healthy relationships within our communities.

The notion of deservingness has a profound impact on our interactions with others. It implies that certain individuals or groups are entitled to certain rights, privileges, or benefits simply because they meet certain criteria or possess certain qualities. This belief can be traced back to various philosophical and ethical frameworks, including utilitarianism, Kantianism, and social contract theory.

One of the key arguments against the concept of deservingness is that it can be used to justify discrimination and inequality. For example, if someone is perceived as less deserving of a job or educational opportunity due to their race, gender, or social class, they may be denied these opportunities solely based on their perceived lack of deservingness. This can lead to a perpetuation of social and economic disparities, as those who are already marginalized continue to face barriers to success.

Another issue with the concept of deservingness is that it can be subjective and arbitrary. Different individuals and groups may have different perspectives on what constitutes deservingness, leading to inconsistencies in how individuals are treated. For example, one person may believe that a person who commits a crime deserves harsh punishment, while another may argue that the person should be given a second chance. This can create a sense of injustice and unfairness, as individuals are treated differently based on their subjective perceptions of deservingness.

Despite these criticisms, the concept of deservingness remains prevalent in our society. It is often used to justify policies and practices that prioritize the needs of certain groups over others, such as affirmative action programs that provide opportunities for marginalized individuals. However, it is important to recognize that the concept of deservingness can be harmful and should be approached with caution and scrutiny.

In conclusion, the concept of deservingness is complex and multifaceted. While it can be used to justify certain policies and practices, it can also be used to perpetuate discrimination and inequality. It is important to approach the concept of deservingness with a critical eye and to work towards creating a more just and equitable society that treats all individuals with respect and dignity.

Weight: 496g
Dimension: 159 x 236 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108845328