The Distributive Justice Theory of Self-Defense: A Response to Whitley Kaufman

Abstract:     
In several papers, I have argued for a theory of distributive justice and considered its implications. This theory includes a principle of responsibility that was endorsed by others within an account of defensive force (self-defense and defense of others). Whitley Kaufman criticizes this account which he refers to as the "distributive justice theory of self-defense" (DJ theory). In this paper, I respond to this criticism. I argue that Kaufman presents the theory inaccurately, that his standard of evaluation of the theory is inadequate and that his claim that the theory should be rejected is unconvincing.

Number of Pages in PDF File: 7

Keywords: Distributive Justice, Self-Defense

JEL Classification: D30, K14

Accepted Paper Series