Moral Basis for Affirmative Action

Want to read the rest of this paper? Join Essayworld today to view this entire essay and over 50,000 other term papers

affirmative action policies in the Unites States of America. The goal of preferential treatment is to create a level playing field for the members of under-represented groups, which have suffered discrimination in the past. The application of such policies in workplaces and educational institutions has created ethical dilemma. Arguments in favor of affirmative actions can be viewed into six categories. First, the arguments based on justice will be reviewed. These arguments have a backward looking ethical principal to remedy the past racism and sexism actions. Second, the arguments based on democracy and common good are examined and their rational to include every citizen in a democratic society. Third, the argument on grounds of social utility will be reviewed. These arguments would promote desirable outcomes such as better business delivery and results to minorities. Forth, the argument is based on feminist ethics of care. Fifth, the argument on ground of social contract implies ...

Get instant access to over 50,000 essays. Write better papers. Get better grades. Already a member? Login

the highest entry-level salaries when compare to other social group; that women with similar credentials and experience." As far as job promotions are concerned minorities had less chance of advancement (Jomills & McPartland 1987).

Face with increasing social unrest and historical injustice against women and minorities and the emergence of civil rights movements, in 1965, President Lyndon B. Johnson issues Executive Order 11246 (1964). The intent of this order was to implement affirmative action programs to overcome the historical effects of discrimination against women and minorities. Affirmative action refers to a set of specific procedures designed to ensure an equal ...

Succeed in your coursework without stepping into a library. Get access to a growing library of notes, book reports, and research papers in 2 minutes or less.

CITE THIS PAGE: