John Rawls

Question 1

What was his key book called?

Answer 1

A Theory of Justice
published 1971

Question 2

What were his philosophical influences?

Answer 2

Utilitarianism had dominated previously (“greatest good for the greatest number”)

Question 3

What was his personal/historical context?

Question 4

His views on the state:

Question 5

His views on the economy:

Answer 5

• Did not support free market capitalism
• Supported a regulated market economy on the basis of fairness
• Therefore progressive taxation, welfare opportunities, and more equal opportunity
  —> linked to the idea of the modern welfare state

Question 6

His views on society:

Question 7

His views on human nature:

Answer 7

Balanced view of human nature
- people are self-interested BUT also rational and reasonable
- Not purely selfish but also can cooperate under fair conditions

Question 8

Key quotes:

Question 9

What was his belief in the “veil of ignorance” about?

Answer 9

He designed a thought experiment called the “original position” where individuals do not know their wealth, social position, abilities, race or gender. This forces fairness because individuals do not know where in society they will end up.