A Theory of Justice: 8 key ideas
The core ideas of A Theory of Justice, each in under a minute, written in our own words. Want the full depth? Get the book.
- IDEA 1 OF 8
Justice should be fair to everyone
Rawls develops a theory he calls justice as fairness.
He asks what principles free and equal people would agree to if they were choosing the basic rules of society together, under conditions that do not favour anyone.
- IDEA 2 OF 8
Imagine choosing behind a veil
Rawls proposes a thought experiment called the original position.
People choose principles of justice behind a veil of ignorance, not knowing whether they will be rich or poor, talented or not, or which group they will belong to.
- IDEA 3 OF 8
Not knowing leads to fair choices
Behind the veil, Rawls argues, people would choose rules that protect everyone, because they might end up in any position.
This removes bias from the choice. Fairness comes from ignorance of one's own place.
- IDEA 4 OF 8
Liberty comes first
Rawls's first principle is that everyone should have equal basic liberties, such as freedom of speech and conscience.
These liberties take priority over economic gains. Freedom cannot be traded for wealth.
- IDEA 5 OF 8
Inequality must help the worst off
Rawls's difference principle says that social and economic inequalities are acceptable only if they benefit the least advantaged members of society.
Inequality must work for everyone. Gains at the top must also raise those at the bottom.
- IDEA 6 OF 8
Opportunity must be fair
Rawls argues that positions and offices should be open to all under fair equality of opportunity.
People with similar talents should have similar chances, regardless of background. Background should not decide destiny.
- IDEA 7 OF 8
Primary goods matter to everyone
Rawls describes primary goods, such as rights, opportunities, income and self-respect, which everyone needs whatever their goals.
Justice concerns how these are distributed. Fair shares of these goods help everyone pursue a good life.
- IDEA 8 OF 8
Utilitarianism is not enough
Rawls criticises utilitarianism, which aims to maximise total happiness.
He argues that it can justify sacrificing some people for others, ignoring individual rights. Persons are not to be traded off against each other.
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