John Rawls Flashcards
Who was John Rawls?
John Rawls was the most important exponent of modern liberalism, which was developed in his major work ‘A Theory of Justice’ 1971.
Which type of liberal was John Rawls?
John Rawls was a modern liberal.
What was John Rawls’ view of human nature?
John Rawls believed that mankind is selfish, yet empathetic, valuing both individual liberty and the plight of those around them
(thus the state should ensure individual freedom as well as the freedom of the less fortunate through positive liberty)
What was John Rawls’ view of the state?
John Rawls used the ‘veil of ignorance’ concept to argue that individuals would select a society based on fairness. So the state should implement progressive taxation and redistribution of wealth
(to advance poorest citizens, to ensure liberty for all, one is not free if he cannot afford to eat)
What was John Rawls’ view of society?
John Rawls used the ‘veil of ignorance’ concept to show that individuals would choose a society where the condition of the poorest improved.
(thus justifying the state’s intervention through progressive taxation to advance poorest citizens, to ensure liberty for all)
What was John Rawls’ view of the economy?
John Rawls used the original position and the ‘veil of ignorance’ to argue that individuals would select a society based on fairness. So free market capitalism should be tempered by the state who should implement progressive taxation and redistribution of wealth
(to advance poorest citizens, to ensure liberty for all, one is not free if he cannot afford to eat)
