Abstract

LOUREIRO, Marco. Ideal Theory and Its Applicability: Are Principles Independent from Facts?. Diacrítica [online]. 2015, vol.29, n.2, pp.231-250. ISSN 0807-8967.

In this article we will analyse the relationship between ideal theory and nonideal theory. We will discuss problems that ideal theory faces concerning its applicability in unfavourable circumstances. Some arguments about the role of ideal theory to real politics and possible limitations will be displayed. Finally, we will analyse G.A. Cohen's claim about the independency of principles from facts. We will argue that if principles are independent from facts, then it is not required that ideal theory concerns itself with questions about the applicability of its prescriptions. But if they are not completely independent from facts, we will try to answer the problem of knowing if we should always endorse them regardless of the facts.

Keywords : Ideal theory; Nonideal theory; Noncompliance; Principles; Facts.

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