Two Problems with the Socio-Relational Critique of Distributive Egalitarianism

Distributive egalitarians believe that distributive justice is to be explained by the idea of distributive equality (DE) and that DE is of intrinsic value. The socio-relational critique argues that distributive egalitarianism does not account for the “true” value of equality, which rather lies in the idea of “equality as a substantive social value” (ESV). This paper examines the socio-relational critique and argues that it fails because – contrary to what the critique presupposes –, first, ESV is not conceptually distinct from DE, and second, the idea of ESV cannot serve as a “foundation” or “root” of distributive egalitarianism.