Discrimination, Affirmative Action, and Diversity in Business

Abstract This article examines philosophical theories applicable to discrimination, affirmative action, and diversity in business. It argues that utilitarianism supports many forward-looking arguments for affirmative action based on good consequences and that natural rights theory can be used to support both forward-looking and backward-looking arguments for affirmative action. It also argues in defense of the view that diversity in the workplace is an important grounding for affirmative action.