Irreversible loss

Spiekermann, Kai (2022) Irreversible loss. In: Gardiner, Stephen, (ed.) Oxford Handbook of Intergenerational Ethics. Oxford University Press, Oxford, UK. ISBN 9780190881931 (In Press)

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Abstract

This chapter offers three reasons for trying to avoid some irreversible losses. First, there is a prudential reason for avoiding irreversible loss in order to keep options open in the future in the face of uncertainty. Second, humans have reasons to care about the preservation of some goods, even beyond their own life. Third, present generations may have duties towards future generations to avoid some irreversible losses, though spelling out such theories of intergenerational ethics or justice is challenging. Finally, the chapter responds to the objection that – in a certain sense – all processes are irreversible and the notion therefore empty. A sensible conception of irreversibility is offered that avoids this concern.

Item Type:	Book Section
Official URL:	https://academic.oup.com/edited-volume/34721
Additional Information:	© 2022 The Author
Divisions:	Government
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > B Philosophy (General)
Date Deposited:	13 Dec 2022 09:48
Last Modified:	08 May 2024 16:49
URI:	http://eprints.lse.ac.uk/id/eprint/117592

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