Liberalism, Childhood and Justice: Ethical Issues in Upbringing

This radical and critical account of family justice explores childrens wellbeing and ethical issues in childrens upbringing through the lens of political philosophy. Fowler reconceptualises what constitutes childrens wellbeing, the duties of parents to promote childrens wellbeing and the collective obligations of state and society to ensure that childrens best interests are advanced and protected.

Arguing that the wellbeing of children should not be measured in terms of subjective happiness but rather by them coming to hold an appropriate set of values and aspirations, Fowler challenges the dominant liberal model of parenting and calls instead for all citizens to take greater responsibility for guaranteeing that children lead flourishing lives.