The Partiality of Friendship
Jim has the responsibility of filling a position in his firm. His friend Paul has applied and
is qualified, but someone else seems even more qualified. Jim wants to give the job to
Paul, but he feels guilty, believing that he ought to be impartial. That’s the essence of
morality, he initially tells himself. This belief is, however, rejected, as Jim resolves that
friendship has a moral importance that permits, and perhaps even requires, partiality in
some circumstances. So, he gives the job to Paul. Was he right?