Lucy Allais

Lucy Allais is a Professor of Philosophy jointly appointed at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg and the University of California, San Diego (Henry Allison Chair of the History of Philosophy). Her work focuses on Kant’s theoretical philosophy and political philosophy, particularly transcendental idealism, moral psychology, and the ethical implications of systemic inequality.

• Primary research areas: Kantian philosophy, ethics, political philosophy, and moral psychology.

In her article Kant on Giving to Beggars, she explores tensions in Kant’s political philosophy regarding state coercion, private property, and moral responsibility to beggars. This analysis highlights systemic injustice and the limitations of private compassion.

Lucy’s broader contributions include connecting Kant’s ideas to contemporary issues like wealth inequality and public institutions. She emphasizes the necessity of state structures to ensure reciprocal freedom, as seen in her critique of private charity and advocacy for systemic solutions.