The Morality in/of Compromise: Some Theoretical Reflections

Abstract

This article aims to highlight the position occupied by compromise in the field of ethics. The argument is set out in two stages. First, the author attempts to clarify the contours of compromise by treating it as both a procedure or process of conflict resolution and a goal or “solution” to be achieved. In the second stage, he examines the distinction that could be made between “morality in compromise” and “morality of compromise”, so as to measure its import and show how compromise not only contains elements specific to morality as a system but can also be a form of morality in itself.

The collection of “quality” umbilical cord blood for stem cell treatments: conflicts, compromises, and clinical pragmatism

“…Midwives, obstetricians, and UCB bankers attempted to find a way for UCB to be collected without jeopardising maternal and neonatal health. This compromising aspect of the options, in particular the consideration of other stakeholders' needs or requirements, suggested midwives, obstetricians, and UCB bankers acknowledged the 'significance' of their place in the debates surrounding the collection of 'quality' UCB (Nachi 2004;Menkel-Meadow 2006). In effect, if midwives, obstetricians, and UCB bankers did not deem each other to be influential in the debates, then there would be little motivation to compromise their own requirements in an attempt to meet others' demands.…”

“…The proposition of a compromise suggests that a conflict is possible or in existence (Golding 1979;Nachi 2004) and that it stems from 'political' problems (Hallowell 1944). So, whilst the presence of a compromise acts as an acknowledgement of the other stakeholder, and…”

“…gives 'significance' to their place in the debate (Nachi 2004;Menkel-Meadow 2006), not all stakeholders are equal, and instead the balance of power can tip in the favour of some over 6 others (Arnsperger and Picavet 2004;Menkel-Meadow 2006). Examining the negotiation process therefore can highlight the power dynamics at play (Nachi 2004) and provide insight into whom or what is being negotiated for or over, thereby reflecting the needs or interests of specific parties (Menkel-Meadow 2006). Consequently, insight into the roles and relationships of key stakeholders in cord blood banking and maternity practices is essential, as it enable us to learn how the interactions between the two stakeholder groups are reflected in policy and practice today.…”

J. S. Mill and the Art of Compromise

“…However, the literature on ethics has not displayed a similar interest on the issue in spite of the recent work of Bellamy (2002), Nachi (2004b) and Margalit (2010). Possibly this is because compromising and bargaining are not valued as part of honest behavior if we are concerned with values or duties.…”

Compromise and/or Integrity? Some Normative Remarks

“…2 See e.g. Arnsperger C., Picavet E.B., "More than Modus Vivendi, less than Overlapping Consensus: Towards a Political Theory of Social Compromise", Social Science Information, 43, (2), 167-204, 2004;Pennock J., Chapman J., Compromise in Ethics, Law, and Politics, New York, New York University Press, 1979. 3 See Cejudo (2010), p. 301: "However, the literature on ethics has not displayed a similar interest on the issue, in spite of the recent work of Bellamy (2002), Nachi (2004), and Margalit (2010). Possibly this is because compromising and bargaining are not valued as part of honest behavior if we are concerned with values or duties.…”