A Theory of Justice Book summary

A Theory of Justice is a work of political philosophy that examines the concept of justice and the principles that ought to be used to evaluate and design social institutions. The book presents Rawls's theory of justice as fairness, which argues that the fairest and most just society is one in which the basic structure of the society is arranged to produce the best possible outcomes for the least advantaged members of society. It is an influential book because it presents a comprehensive and influential theory of justice and addresses a wide range of topics in political philosophy and ethics. Rawls's theory of justice as fairness has shaped much of the subsequent discourse on justice and political philosophy. The book's ideas have also had a significant impact outside of academic philosophy, and have been cited and discussed by politicians, policymakers, and other public figures. Upon its publication, the book was widely reviewed and discussed, and it has since become a classic work in the field of political philosophy. In 1995, the book was named one of the "100 most influential books since the war" (World War II) by the UK Times Literary Supplement. It has also received several awards, including the 1972 National Book Award for Philosophy and Religion.

 

John Rawls’ A Theory of Justice, published in 1971, is a work of normative political philosophy and ethics. A moral theory that offers an alternative to utilitarianism, and addresses distributive justice i.e., equal distribution of goods in a society. The theory takes its references from the social contract theory and Kant’s philosophy. Rawls argues that Utilitarianism is a contrast to justice as fairness since institutions in society are structured in the correct order to maintain the greatest net balance of satisfaction.

The first part of the book highlights topics like ‘justice as fairness’, ‘principles of justice’, and ‘the original position’. The second throws light on ‘equal liberty’, ‘distributive shares’, and ‘duty and obligation’. The third emphasizes those sections of part one and two that fuse well together. ‘Goodness as rationality’, ‘Sense of justice’, and ‘the good of justice constitute the final section of the book. 

The theory of justice as discussed by Rawls opposes other theories of justice, and was itself challenged rigorously before its final publication in 1971. His theory maintains the idea that in a society, people should be given equal liberties. Social and economic equality can be permitted only if it benefits the underprivileged. Also, inequality should not make it difficult for the underprivileged to occupy power. 

Justice as fairness demands equal basic rights, opportunities, and benefits for the underprivileged. Rawls incorporates a thought experiment, Original Position, to facilitate this. In this, people decide the principles of justice behind a veil of ignorance. This veil blinds people to the facts of their life so they cannot formulate the principles to their advantage. This will lead to fair and just principles for all. If a person has no idea about how a particular station benefits him more than anyone else, then he will take part in decisions that favor everyone. Rawl's original position increases the prospects of the least well-off. 

Rawls mentions two principles of justice:

• Every person has an equal claim and right to basic liberties which are similar to all.
• Social and economic inequalities must be for the greatest benefit of the underprivileged and the offices and positions must also be open for everyone under equal fair opportunities. 

The first principle is referred to as the equal liberty principle, while the second is the difference principle and equal opportunity principle. The equal liberty principle is followed by the equal opportunity principle and the difference principle. The three principles must be satisfied in that order otherwise the principles will not apply. The equal liberty principle gives equal liberties to all. The difference principle demands that the inequalities must benefit the least advantaged. Last, the equal opportunity principle ensures that everyone is given equal opportunities.

The theory of Justice includes developing principles and applying rules. The problem of intergenerational justice is addressed along with the principles of moral psychology like envy, self-respect, shame, excellence, good and right. The theory provides appropriate justification for civil disobedience. Also, the natural duties and obligations should be included with the principles of justice. The theory of justice as fairness must serve as a reasonable alternative to utilitarianism. The three parts of justice as fairness form a unified theory. 

The two principles of justice can be concluded as follows:

First Principle - Everyone should have equal access to the system of equal liberties provided that liberty is the same for all. 

Second Principle - Social and economic inequalities must be beneficial for the weaker sections and the offices should be open for all with equal opportunities. 

The Priority of Liberty - Principles are arranged in lexical order. Liberties can be constrained only for liberty. There are two scenarios: 1) Total liberties shared by all must be strengthened by less extensive liberty. 2) unequal liberty can be accepted by people with fewer liberal opportunities. 

Justice over Efficiency and Welfare - This comes before the principle of efficiency. Also, fair opportunity comes before the difference principle. Unequal opportunities must ensure that people with lesser opportunities are provided with more benefits.