In 'Justice as Fairness', John Rawls presents a groundbreaking theory of justice that prioritizes fairness over utilitarianism. He introduces the concept of the 'original position' and the 'veil of ignorance', challenging readers to rethink social justice in a new light. Rawls argues for principles that ensure equality and protect the most disadvantaged members of society. His philosophical insights spark deep questions about morality, government, and individual rights. This provocative work invites readers to envision a more equitable world and ponder their role in it.
By John Rawls, Professor John Rawls
Published: 2001
"Justice is the first virtue of social institutions, as truth is of systems of thought."
This book originated as lectures for a course on political philosophy that Rawls taught regularly at Harvard in the 1980s. In time the lectures became a restatement of his theory of justice as fairness, revised in light of his more recent papers and his treatise Political Liberalism (1993). As Rawls writes in the preface, the restatement presents "in one place an account of justice as fairness as I now see it, drawing on all [my previous] works." He offers a broad overview of his main lines of thought and also explores specific issues never before addressed in any of his writings. Rawls is well aware that since the publication of A Theory of Justice in 1971, American society has moved farther away from the idea of justice as fairness. Yet his ideas retain their power and relevance to debates in a pluralistic society about the meaning and theoretical viability of liberalism. This book demonstrates that moral clarity can be achieved even when a collective commitment to justice is uncertain.
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“Justice is the first virtue of social institutions, as truth is of systems of thought.”
Justice as Fairness
By John Rawls, Professor John Rawls
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John Rawls (1921-2002) was an influential American political philosopher best known for his work in moral and political theory. His most notable works include "A Theory of Justice" (1971), which introduced the principles of justice as fairness, and "Political Liberalism" (1993), which further developed his ideas for a diverse and pluralistic society. Rawls’ writing is characterized by a clear and systematic approach, blending rigorous reasoning with a commitment to addressing questions of justice and equality. His theories have had a profound impact on modern political philosophy and continue to influence contemporary discussions on social justice.
Professor John Rawls (1921-2002) was an influential American philosopher best known for his work in political philosophy and ethics. His most notable work, 'A Theory of Justice' (1971), introduced the concept of 'justice as fairness' and proposed a framework for assessing the justice of social institutions. Rawls's writing style is characterized by its clarity and rigorous argumentation, making complex philosophical ideas accessible to a broader audience. Other significant works include 'Political Liberalism' (1993) and 'The Law of Peoples' (1999), where he further elaborated on his theories and addressed issues of international justice. Rawls's contributions have had a lasting impact on political theory, social justice, and moral philosophy.
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