A CRITICAL EVALUATION OF ALAN WERTHEIMER’S CONCEPT OF EXPLOITATION

ABSTRACT

Exploitation is interacting with another in a way that takes unfair advantage of that person. Exploitation is thought to be morally wrong even when it would bring about the best attainable outcome, hence conflicts with the consequentialist morality that holds one ought always to do whatever would bring about the best outcome. This essay in line with Alan Wertheimer’s view, aims to reconcile norms against exploitation and act consequentialism. A puzzle about exploitation is raised and resolved.