Global poverty and international distributive justice
Global poverty and international distributive justice are an initiative which needs support across the world in an attempt to build an equitable society. International distributive justice concerns sharing our benefits and burdens in life or building a world with a fair if not equal distribution of resources. Equitable distribution of resources helps in promoting world peace and development of the world economy hence eliminating poverty. Different philosophers have championed for a world where there is an equitable distribution and where everyone can get the basic need and be treated with dignity.
Peter Singer's perspective
Peter Singer argues that individual and states should view contribution toward the poor and less privileged in the society as a moral obligation. Peter contends that though most traditions view the act of giving as charity, such action should be seen as a duty and particularly when directed toward impoverished and famine-stricken persons.
Thomas Pogge's perspective
Thomas Pogge agrees with the moral view put forward by Peter Singer. According to Thomas, every state is endowed with natural resources or Global Resource Dividend (GRD). Thomas reasons that poor people in the world have an unalienable stake in these limited resources that each state possesses. Thomas reasons that are a moral duty for everyone to assist those in distress. Peter and Thomas both contend that increased poverty, inequality and marginalization is due to wealthier individuals using substantial amount of world resources without giving any to the poor. They would rather live affluent life than give to the refugees and poor people.
The role of individuals and institutions
Peter Singer argues that an individual has a significant role to play in supporting the poor in the society. However, Thomas looks at the issues of poverty eradication as an institutional decision that needs the support of the individuals. He contends that though there are global institutions that have been established to improve equity such as the IMF and UN, these institutions have imposed rules that favor developed nations rather than developing and underdeveloped states. Their policies have contributed to the increase in global inequality. These philosophers emphasize the needs relook at the ways to enhance the equitable distribution and reduce inequality or support those in dire need.
