Rawls difference principle意思
Rawls' Difference Principle is a central component of John Rawls' theory of justice, as articulated in his book "A Theory of Justice" (1971). The principle is designed to address the distribution of goods in a society, particularly economic inequalities, in a way that is fair and promotes the well-being of the least well-off members of society.
The Difference Principle can be summarized as follows:
"Social and economic inequalities are to be arranged so that they are both (a) to the greatest benefit of the least well-off, and (b) attached to positions and offices open to all."
In other words, any inequalities in society should be justified only if they work to the advantage of the least well-off members of society. This principle is meant to ensure that the benefits of economic growth and social progress are shared fairly, and that the worst-off members of society are not left behind.
Rawls' theory of justice is based on two main principles:
- The principle of equal liberty: Each person has an equal right to a fully adequate scheme of equal basic liberties, which is compatible with the same scheme of liberties for all.
- The difference principle: Social and economic inequalities are to be arranged so that they are both (a) to the greatest benefit of the least well-off, and (b) attached to positions and offices open to all.
The Difference Principle is the second principle, and it is meant to ensure that the benefits of economic growth and social progress are shared fairly, and that the worst-off members of society are not left behind.
Rawls' theory of justice is based on the idea of the "veil of ignorance," which is a thought experiment designed to ensure that the principles of justice are chosen impartially, without knowledge of one's own place in society. According to Rawls, if we were to choose the principles of justice without knowing our own position in society, we would choose principles that would be to the advantage of the least well-off, because we might end up being among the least well-off ourselves.
The Difference Principle is a way of ensuring that the benefits of economic growth and social progress are shared fairly, and that the worst-off members of society are not left behind. It is a way of ensuring that the least well-off members of society are not only protected, but also have the opportunity to improve their position.