Contributive Justice: A Shared Horizon for the Renewal of American Life

Across many lines of perceived difference we share a sense of turmoil. But efforts for change pull in different directions, sometimes under-cutting each other and further eroding social cohesion. In their recently published book Rethinking Social Justice, Michael Karlberg and Derik Smith take up two fundamental questions: What ends should we aspire to as a society, and what means are most effective for pursuing them? In addressing the question of ends, the authors identify a shared horizon that diverse traditions of thought all orient toward contributive justice—the creation of social conditions that allow every individual and group to develop their capacities to contribute meaningfully to collective flourishing. Moderated by best-selling author, journalist and co-founder of Good Conflict, Amanda Ripley, this conversation will engage the authors and audience in exploring how a reorientation toward contributive justice, together with the exercise of constructive agency, might help transcend factionalism, galvanize a sense of common purpose, and foster the spiritual renewal of American life.