Abstract:
In this thesis, I argue that using principles of restorative justice as a guide in the
resolution of sexual harassment claims is more efficacious than a traditional retributive
approach. I support this claim by synthesizing the work of Phillip Hallie, Josiah Royce
and Martin Buber in order to come to a comprehensive definition of human dignity.
In addition, I use the concept of Beloved Community and agape of Dr. Martin Luther
King, Jr. in order to illustrate the link between human dignity and community.
Finally, I use Bishop Desmond Tutu's work with Truth and Reconciliation
Commission after the fall of apartheid in South Africa as a model for a restorative
justice approach to sexual harassment claims. In order to illustrate my claim, I employ
two hypothetical fact patterns to demonstrate the relative advantages of a restorative
justice process versus a retributive justice process. Cherrystone State University
demonstrates a retributive process and Magnolia State University demonstrates a
restorative process.
