👑 John Rawls – Theory of Justice
UPSC PSIR | Very High Weightage | Foundation of Modern Political Theory
1️⃣ INTRODUCTION
John Rawls (1921–2002) revived liberal political philosophy in the 20th century. His book “A Theory of Justice” (1971) transformed debates on equality and fairness.
Core Question: What is a just society?
2️⃣ JUSTICE AS FAIRNESS
Rawls defines justice as fairness. A society is just when principles are chosen fairly.
Two Key Devices:
- Original Position
- Veil of Ignorance
3️⃣ ORIGINAL POSITION
Imaginary situation where rational individuals choose principles of justice.
They are equal and free.
4️⃣ VEIL OF IGNORANCE
Individuals do NOT know:
- Their caste
- Their religion
- Their class
- Their gender
- Their talents
Because of this uncertainty, they choose fair principles.
5️⃣ TWO PRINCIPLES OF JUSTICE
1️⃣ First Principle – Liberty Principle
Each person has equal basic liberties.
- Freedom of speech
- Right to vote
- Freedom of conscience
- Rule of law
This principle has priority. Liberty cannot be sacrificed for economic gain.
2️⃣ Second Principle – Equality Principle
Two parts:a) Fair Equality of Opportunity
Positions must be open to all under fair conditions.
b) Difference Principle
Inequalities are allowed ONLY if they benefit the least advantaged.
This is Rawls’ most revolutionary idea.
6️⃣ RAWLS vs UTILITARIANISM
- Utilitarianism → Greatest happiness of majority.
- Rawls → Protects minorities and weakest.
Rawls rejects sacrificing individuals for collective happiness.
7️⃣ RAWLS vs LIBERTARIANS (Nozick)
- Nozick → Minimal state, property rights.
- Rawls → Redistribution justified.
Rawls supports welfare state.
8️⃣ RAWLS & INDIAN CONSTITUTION
Connections:- Fundamental Rights → Liberty Principle
- Directive Principles → Equality
- Reservation → Difference Principle
- Welfare Schemes → Least advantaged focus
9️⃣ CRITICISMS
- Communitarians → Too individualistic
- Marxists → Ignores structural inequality
- Feminists → Gender neutrality unrealistic
🔟 MAINS QUESTIONS
- Explain Rawls’ theory of justice.
- Critically examine the Difference Principle.
- Rawls vs Utilitarianism.
- Is Rawls relevant for India?
📌 QUICK REVISION MAP
- Original Position
- Veil of Ignorance
- Two Principles
- Priority of Liberty
- Difference Principle
“Justice is the first virtue of social institutions.” – Rawls
Shaktimatha Learning – Advanced PSIR Series
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