"Collective persons and their responsibilities".

Ludger Jansen (Universität Rostock)

Abstract:

Whether there is collective responsibility is a hot topic in recent philosophy. After decades with mainly individualistic inclinations, collectivist conceptions are on the rise again. Inspired by Margaret Gilbert's concept of a plural subject, I will present a model for insitutional persons (including certain collectives) and show how they can bear responsibility for past and future actions. I will argue for a two-tier model of responsibility including both individual and institutional responsibility. If time allows, I will also discuss whether collective persons can become guilty and how they could be reasonably punished.