Moral strangers and moral acquaintances: how to conduct professional relationships in a society of captives: a commentary on Arrigo

Abstract

In this article, I examine Bruce Arrigo's target article and the implications of his thesis that the mental health and criminal justice systems marginalize vulnerable individuals through a variety of symbolic and discursive practices. In particular, I direct my attention to the problem of value pluralism and how it can create problems communicating across different moral communities. I apply the insights of relational ethics and the concept of moral acquaintanceship in an attempt to bridge this gap. I then discuss the implications of this framework for Arrigo's thesis and a story written by Amy Johnson describing the devastating effects of abuse, racism, and illness on a person of color.

Keywords: moral acquaintance; offenders; professional ethics.