The principles of justice as fairness, as articulated by John Rawls, consist of two main principles: the liberty principle and the equality principle, with the latter further divided into fair equality of opportunity and the difference principle.
These principles are arranged in a specific order of priority, known as lexical priority, to resolve potential conflicts. This means the first principle must be fully satisfied before the second is considered, and so on.
Here's a breakdown:
1. The Liberty Principle:
- Each person is to have an equal right to the most extensive scheme of equal basic liberties compatible with a similar scheme of liberties for others. This principle guarantees fundamental rights and freedoms, such as freedom of thought, conscience, speech, and association. These liberties are considered inviolable and cannot be traded off for economic or social advantages.
2. The Equality Principle: This principle addresses social and economic inequalities, consisting of two parts:
* **Fair Equality of Opportunity:** Social and economic inequalities are to be arranged so that they are attached to offices and positions open to all under conditions of fair equality of opportunity. This means that everyone should have an equal chance to attain these positions, regardless of their social background. This requires taking steps to mitigate the effects of social disadvantages.
* **The Difference Principle:** Social and economic inequalities are to be arranged so that they are to the greatest benefit of the least advantaged members of society. This principle allows for inequalities only if they ultimately improve the well-being of those who are worst off. For example, higher salaries for doctors might be justified if it leads to better healthcare for everyone, including the poor.Lexical Priority:
Rawls arranges these principles in lexical order, meaning the first principle must be fully satisfied before the second is considered. The order is as follows:
- The Liberty Principle
- Fair Equality of Opportunity
- The Difference Principle
This priority reflects the importance of basic liberties and fair opportunities as fundamental to a just society. Economic advantages cannot come at the expense of these essential rights and freedoms.
In summary, justice as fairness prioritizes equal basic liberties, ensures fair equality of opportunity, and permits inequalities only to the extent that they benefit the least advantaged members of society. These principles are intended to guide the design of just social institutions.
