Rawls' theory of justice is both contractual and distributive. Examine. (UPSC CSE Mains 2017 - Political Science and International Relations, Paper 1)
Rawls'' theory of justice can be divided into two parts
- the original position
- the difference principle.
The original position is a hypothetical situation where individuals are stripped of their personal identities, beliefs, and biases. In this position, individuals are considered rational and self-interested, and they are tasked with choosing principles of justice that would govern society. According to Rawls, individuals in the original position would choose two principles of justice: the first principle of equal basic liberties, and the second principle of the difference principle.
The first principle of equal basic liberties ensures that every individual has the same basic rights and freedoms, such as freedom of speech, religion, and association. Rawls argues that these liberties must be protected as they are necessary for individuals to pursue their own conception of the good life. The second principle of the difference principle is concerned with the distribution of resources and opportunities in society. According to this principle, inequalities in wealth and power are only permissible if they work to the advantage of the least advantaged members of society. In other words, social and economic inequalities should be arranged so that they benefit the worst-off members of society.
- Rawls'' theory Firstly, provides a clear framework for evaluating social and economic institutions. Rawls argues that institutions must be judged based on how well they protect individuals'' basic liberties and how well they distribute resources and opportunities in society. This provides a useful tool for evaluating policies and laws that impact people''s lives.
- Secondly, Rawls'' theory of justice emphasizes the importance of fairness and impartiality. The original position ensures that individuals make decisions about justice without bias or prejudice, which means that the principles they choose are fair and just. This is particularly important in a diverse society where individuals have different backgrounds, beliefs, and values.
Some critics argue that it is too idealistic and impractical, as it assumes that individuals in the original position are completely rational and self-interested. Others argue that it does not go far enough in addressing issues of gender, race, and other forms of oppression that exist in society.
Rawls'' theory of justice is hence both contractual and distributive, aiming to create a just society where individuals have equal basic liberties and resources are distributed fairly.
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