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Justice: Origins and Destinations

In: William Godwin and Thomas Robert Malthus

Author

Listed:
  • David Reisman

    (University of Surrey)

Abstract

Godwin applied his theory of mind to the material integument of a society that he believed to be superficial and evanescent. Property ownership separated from function he regarded as a distance factor that ought to be levelled down. No title is ever absolute: all ownership is subject to community approbation and inheritance therefore is contingent. The factors of production are making labour the servant of land and capital. The work function is being downgraded from creativity to alienation. Exploitation to Godwin (who believed that only labour can add value) was theft. Opportunity was inequitable. The deprived were not being given an equal start and an open road while such state education as the poor receive is propaganda. Consumption is a sham. Signs, badges, identifiers, symbols are, economically and socially, a waste: superfluities are conspicuous consumption which works against social harmony and cohesion whereas distinction earned by social service is socially unifying rather than invidious. The state cannot be trusted to eschew manipulation in the interests of social class. Social sanctions and economic growth would be a more reliable tool for making origins and destinations more equitable.

Suggested Citation

  • David Reisman, 2024. "Justice: Origins and Destinations," Springer Books, in: William Godwin and Thomas Robert Malthus, chapter 0, pages 87-118, Springer.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:sprchp:978-3-031-62113-0_5
    DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-62113-0_5
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