Definition of the problem In this article, a discussion of Iris Marion Young's reflections on forms of oppression and the mechanisms that sustain them are presented, in order to make Young's theory productive for an analysis of the contemporary state of caregiving in Germany and the political debate surrounding it. Initially I explain Young's thesis that distributive models of power, rights and opportunity work poorly, do not help underprivileged social groups with regard to effective representation of their interests and do not lead automatically to a just society. Arguments Therefore, it is necessary to understand what causes and effects the stabilisation of social injustice in reality. The five forms of oppression that are identified by Young are discussed and interpreted in relation to the situation of nursing in our society. Conclusion In the conclusion, I emphasize the contribution Young has made to the issue of socially just participation and hence the importance of her ideas for the current debates on care policies from a theoretical social justice perspective. The analyses and ideas Young offers can contribute to the understanding of political processes and how caregivers can consciously participate in and help shape them. Particularly in the context of care education, these theories can serve to promote a critical, political, and professional consciousness.
