Ethics and Public Policy

Ethics and Public Policy: A Philosophical Inquiry, second edition subjects important and controversial areas of public policy to philosophical scrutiny. Jonathan Wolff, a renowned philosopher and veteran of many public committees, introduces and assesses core problems and controversies in public policy from a philosophical standpoint. Each chapter focuses on an important area of public policy where there is considerable moral and political disagreement. Topics discussed include: • Can we defend inflicting suffering on animals in scientific experiments for human benefit? • What limits to gambling can be achieved through legislation? • What assumptions underlie drug policy? Can we justify punishing those who engage in actions that harm only themselves? • What is so bad about crime? What is the point of punishment? Other chapters discuss health care, disability, safety, and the free market. Throughout the book, fundamental questions for both