Overcoming aporophobia from education, compassion and institutions in the Ethics of Adela Cortina

Abstract

Immigration is a highly prevalent phenomenon that has resulted in social consequences, leading to the rejection of foreigners. However, Adela Cortina goes beyond this and argues that it is not xenophobia that underlies the general rejection of foreigners; rather, it is the rejection of the poor, which she terms "aporophobia." In her ethical framework, Cortina proposes education, compassion, and active respect as ethical responses to this issue. Nevertheless, addressing the root of the problem, which is the overcoming of poverty, becomes essential. Hence, the establishment of institutions working towards this goal becomes fundamental. Ultimately, Cortina envisions a society free from humiliation, a "Kingdom of Ends," where all individuals are valued as ends in themselves, not merely as means to an end. Simultaneously, it should be a cosmopolitan society where the right to free expression, movement, and political participation is upheld.