Work

Revisiting Ontology to Reshape Transgenerational Justice

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: ABSTRACT This article develops a philosophical framework for understanding transgenerationality as a foundational concept for intergenerational justice. Drawing on social ontology and the philosophy of action, it introduces the notion of transgenerational civitas —a temporally extended community composed of past, present and future generations. The paper argues that transgenerational actions, characterised by epistemic and agentic asymmetries, require a diachronic conception of justice that moves beyond reciprocity. By integrating ontological commitments with normative reasoning, the article proposes a model of vertical justice capable of addressing long‐term collective responsibilities and mitigating the populist risks inherent in democratic systems.

Source: Global Policy

DOI: 10.1111/1758-5899.70153

Author: Tiziana Andina

Institution: University of Turin

Language: English

Topic: Political Philosophy and Ethics

Subfield: Political Science and International Relations

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Peace, justice, and strong institutions

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,200