Benefiting from Wrongdoing and Moral Protest

Abstract Some normative theorists believe that there is a principled moral reason not to retain benefits realized by injustice or wrongdoing. However, critics have argued this idea implausible. One purported problem the lacks an obvious rationale and attempts provide one been unconvincing. This paper articulates defends in question has expressive quality: it gets its reason-giving force from symbolic aptness of such act as response The thus argues at least certain subset cases, renouncing amounts powerful uniquely apt expression protest against disrespect for victim implied wrongdoer’s actions. shows how can inform reparations slavery aftermath United States. Lastly develops important objection argument presented gives account be met.