Rank Offence: The Ecological Theory of Resentment

Abstract I argue that fitting resentment tracks unacceptable ‘ecological’ imbalances in relative social strength between victims and perpetrators arise from violations of legitimate moral expectations. It does not respond purely, or even primarily, to offenders’ attitudes, its proper targets need be fully developed agents. characteristically involves a wish for the restoration equilibrium rather than demand recognition good will. To illuminate these contentions, focus on cases believe demonstrate corollary thesis, namely, strength, broadly construed, is necessary condition resentment-worthiness. weakness can make unfitting two ways. First, may prevent wrongdoer shifting balance power. Second, weak do damage but so lowly resentment, which would represent him as excessively strong, inapt. Finally, consider how accepting ecological view might affect our theorizing about responsibility ethics blame.