Relational Responsibility: Bringing the Wider Social Environment into the Analysis

Current conceptions of special responsibilities often adopt a narrow, individualistic lens that fails to consider the broader socio-relational context. In response to this gap, we propose a concept of relational responsibility that emphasises the interconnectedness of individuals and the wider societal context in which they exist. We posit that assigning relational responsibilities should not solely hinge on the voluntary nature of one's relationships, but rather on the intrinsic value of these connections, as determined by individuals who hold pertinent roles within those relationships or who would be impacted by the definition of value. Our account acknowledges that many responsibilities, especially in caregiving contexts, are not chosen freely, and there should be normative limits to protect individuals from unreasonable burdens. Recognising the role of structural conditions in shaping responsibilities, we argue that collectives with the capacity and resources have an obligation to support individuals by mitigating these burdens and creating just conditions for care. This relational and structural reframing offers a more ethically attuned and practically responsive understanding of responsibility.