In her essay, Baier discusses the concepts of the ethics of justice and the ethics of care. She states that “the best moral theory has to be a cooperative product of women and men, has to harmonize justice and care” (Baier 1987, 56). In particular, the ethical theory proposed by the author is centered on moral actions focusing on interpersonal relationships, as well as on the practice of care and kindness. According to Baier, the development of respect and attention for oneself and each other is the basis of virtue and moral behavior. The author also develops the concept of justice by arguing that these ethical principles apply equally to both men and women. According to Baier, women should have the right to form the ethical principles of society due to a unique view of moral values centered on social good.
Based on the work of Carol Gilligan, Baier emphasizes that the lives of men and women are governed by different principles. The author argues that men build interactions with people in a hierarchical structure, while women value kindness, responsibility, and care in relationships. Thus, the author argues that in today’s world, women should take an equal part in the construction of society. For Baier, the concept of justice is the need to shift the focus of social relationships on care and support for each other. The author notes that men and women have different moral skills. However, society does not sufficiently utilize those qualities that women value in interpersonal relationships and in which they are better developed.
In this regard, the main advantage of women is sensitivity and attention to the other rather than to themselves. While men are more individualistic, women can provide care and support to people around them. This aspect plays a key role in building a society of justice, as it allows you to take into account the interests and needs of various parties. Baier that women have a different degree of moral maturity, and by applying it, they can make justice “a virtue of social institutions” (Baier 1987, 54). Thus, the author’s view is that women’s rights should be expanded to participate in the establishment and maintenance of the moral and ethical principles of society.
Reference
Baier, A. C. 1987. “The Need for More than Justice.” Canadian Journal of Philosophy 17, no. sup1: 41-56.