"A Theory of Justice" by John Rawls
"A Theory of Justice" by John Rawls is a critical assessment of the social justice system which he presented as a social contract based on justice. Rawls defined justice as the fairness which would be promoted by individuals in an original position; where they possess independence and equality as other members of the society (Rawls, 17). The possibility of occupying a disadvantaged position would motivate individuals to promote a fair and equitable society where the rights and freedoms of all individuals are protected.
Principles of Justice
The author hypothesized that justice should be guided by the principles of extensive liberties being advanced to everyone and proper identification of inequalities which should then be arranged (Rawls, 31). Arranging the inequalities would be beneficial to everyone and would prevent limiting of an individual's choices. Observing these two principles would diminish the disadvantages of individuals who find themselves with fewer assets and an unfavorable position because more consideration would be given to uplifting them.
The Difference Principle
One of the questionable concepts I identified in the book was the Difference Principle. While the principle is designed to help the poor by redistributing taxed wealth to poor individuals, I find the concept to be an infringement of the liberties of individuals who through hard work attained their wealth. Advancing such a concept is confusing as it appears to deny hardworking individuals justice which the author theorizes to be the most essential building block of a society. From my own observation, it is only fair for individuals to enjoy economic benefits arising from their actions because they may have sacrificed more than less wealthy individual it would, therefore, be unfair for their wealth to be distributed to individuals who sacrificed less than they did.
Work Cited
.Rawls, John. A theory of justice. Harvard university press, 2009. Pp 17-31.
