John Rawls' Theory of Justice

John Rawls' Theory of Justice, influenced by contractarianism, proposes that a just society is one where principles of justice are agreed upon under a "veil of ignorance." This means individuals design societal rules without knowing their own position in it (e.g., wealth, race, gender). This ensures fairness, as people would choose principles that protect the most disadvantaged. Rawls emphasizes two key principles: equal basic rights for all and social and economic inequalities should benefit the least advantaged. His approach aims to balance freedom and equality, creating a foundation for a fair and just society.