Scarcity of resources and distributive justice

Abstract

This article contributes to the discourse on global justice as it pertains to resources and the just distribution of resources. The focus is on the concept of scarcity. In examining different understandings of scarcity through the use of analogies and examples, a distinction is made between absolute scarcity and relative scarcity. I examine the conceptual understanding of scarcity of resources in the context of distributive justice. Conceptual clarity is necessary to ensure that scarcity is properly referred to in the discourse so that scarcity is not erroneously used when justifications are sought for material deprivation and consequent human suffering. The field of distributive justice arguably requires a full comprehension of scarcity of resources, and this can only be achieved by properly examining the concept of scarcity.