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(Dee Speaking) | ||||||
I can't agree. The so-called long-run contribution to human welfare is a dangerous criterion for moral rules, including rights.
First of all, we aren't able to predict the long run very well. Second, what if it turns out that racial discrimination DOES maximize total human welfare? How do you know that it doesn't? What if it makes the white majority happy and prosperous? Would you be willing to accept it then? I doubt it. But can a good utilitarian do that?
I think you're missing the whole idea of rights. Moral rights are supposed to protect individual liberties even when a restriction would maximize the general welfare. That's the point, but that's impossible on your view.
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