A Theory of Justice
by John Rawls
“A milestone in political and moral philosophy, as groundbreaking as the theories of Bentham and Kant and arguably the most important and influential piece of contemporary philosophy of the last century.” ―The Guardian
About This Book
The principles of justice that Rawls sets forth are those that free and rational people would accept in an "original position" of equality. In this hypothetical situation, which mirrors the state of nature in social contract theory, no one knows their place in society. They don't know their class, social status, or fortune in natural assets and abilities like intelligence or strength. They don't even know their conception of the good. Deliberating behind this "veil of ignorance," people naturally determine their proper rights and duties. As Rawls writes, "each person possesses an inviolability founded on justice that even the welfare of society as a whole cannot override." Incorporating ideas from Rousseau, Kant, Emerson, and Lincoln, Rawls's theory is as powerful today as when first published in 1971. For more than half a century, A Theory of Justice has been taught and debated, celebrated and translated into more than thirty languages. This revised edition includes significant changes discussed in the preface, especially to the discussions of liberty and primary social goods.
About the Author
John Rawls
John Rawls was James Bryant Conant University Professor at Harvard University. He received the 1999 National Humanities Medal.