Review by Choice Review
Although this text takes on an interesting and important aspect of distributive justice--the role and situation that luck plays in any democratic system of justice--it leans somewhat toward a readership of technical experts. In some sense, this is a function of the topic, which requires some significant background in the area, but in another sense a glossary could have been added to the already useful index and bibliography. Perhaps in recognition of this potential problem, Hurley (Univ. of Warwick) adds a useful appendix that contains the outlines of many of the arguments in the book. The approach of the text is clearly analytic, with a focus on developing some new directions for the seminal ideas of John Rawls on justice, as well as the work of Gerald Cohen and John Martin Fisher, while adding to the freewill/determinism, responsibility, egalitarianism debate. The introduction of counterobjections throughout the book adds to the sense of lively and informed ongoing debate. It has the twofold effect of narrowly appealing to those already involved in the debate and also to those who make any effort to understand Hurley's views. ^BSumming Up: Recommended. Graduate students and above. J. Gough Red Deer College
Copyright American Library Association, used with permission.
Review by Choice Review
