The Triple Standard of Public Reason

Abstract

Several authors have proposed different models of public reason as a way of dealing with the permanent moral disagreement of liberal societies. In this work we present a model defending two things. First, we defend a deflationist interpretation of the reasons that are acceptable to reasonable citizens. Second, we introduce a new terminology which distinguishes what we call dependent, accessible, and acceptable reasons. We hold that only the second and third types are adequate means for discussion within public reason, and the third type is a correct standard of justification of public policy.