The Dual Interpretation of the Criterion of Reciprocity: The Path to a More Respectful Political Community

This chapter elaborates on the criticism of the standard—respect-based—interpretation of the criterion of reciprocity as the basis of political legitimacy and the principle underlying the whole project of political liberalism. The consequences associated with the requirement of abstracting away from people’s particularities during public deliberation are discussed. Accordingly, it is explained why the convergence approach to public justification is a sufficient solution to the implications of such a requirement. Then the dual interpretation of the criterion of reciprocity is explored; it emphasizes not only the role of the imperative of respect but also the value of civic friendship. The dual interpretation of the criterion of reciprocity, as suggested, leads to the second-person form of respect required at the structural level of the political community.