2013/07/01 by David Gauthier · 1 voice · 76 citations
Social Sciences · #Political Philosophy and Ethics #Rationality #Minimax #Maximization #Economics #Cornerstone #Pareto principle #Mathematical economics #Positive economics #Microeconomics #Welfare economics #Law and economics #Epistemology #Philosophy
paper · doi:10.1086/670246
published in Ethics 123(4), 601-624 (University of Chicago Press)
openalex publication_date 2013/07/01 · openalex created_date 2016/06/24 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/28
This article updates Morals by Agreement. It distinguishes two opposed conceptions of deliberative rationality—maximization and Pareto-optimization. It defends the latter. The constrained maximizers of Morals by Agreement are replaced by rational cooperators. They do not bargain but reach agreement on the principle of maximin proportionate gain, which is a relabeling of maximin relative benefit. The contractarian test, of the acceptability of social arrangements and norms, is introduced, and the Lockean proviso assumes an enhanced role as a cornerstone of rational cooperation. But questions about the force and rationale of the proviso remain.