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Back of the Book

Since it appeared in 1971, John Rawls's A Theory of Justice has become a classic. The author has now revised the original edition to clear up a number of difficulties he and others have found in the original book.

Rawls aims to express an essential part of the common core of the democratic tradition--justice as fairness--and to provide an alternative to utilitarianism, which had dominated the Anglo-Saxon tradition of political thought since the nineteenth century. Rawls substitutes the ideal of the social contract as a more satisfactory account of the basic rights and liberties of citizens as free and equal persons. "Each person," writes Rawls, "possesses an inviolability founded on justice that even the welfare of society as a whole cannot override." Advancing the ideas of Rousseau, Kant, Emerson, and Lincoln, Rawls's theory is as powerful today as it was when first published.

Why You Should Read It

A Theory of Justice is a seminal work that stands as a cornerstone in political philosophy. Rawls's exploration of justice and the construction of a just society, outlined within the original position and the veil of ignorance, is intellectually groundbreaking. The book offers a robust framework for understanding fairness and equality in the social contract, providing a profound basis for ethical and political discussions. Rawls's ideas have had a transformative impact on political thought, inspiring debates on justice, democracy, and the principles that should govern a well-ordered society. A Theory of Justice is not merely a philosophical treatise; it is a timeless guide that challenges readers to contemplate the foundations of justice and consider the ethical underpinnings of the societies we aspire to build. For those seeking a profound exploration of justice and its implications for societal structures, Rawls's work remains a compelling and thought-provoking read.

Memorable Passage

Justice is the first virtue of social institutions, as truth is of systems of thought. A theory however elegant and economical must be rejected or revised if it is untrue; likewise laws and institutions no matter how efficient and well-arranged must be reformed or abolished if they are unjust.

About the Author

John Rawls (1921–2002) was an influential American philosopher whose work fundamentally shaped political and moral philosophy in the 20th century. Born in Baltimore, Maryland, Rawls became a prominent figure in academia, holding positions at notable institutions such as Harvard University. His groundbreaking book, A Theory of Justice (1971), revolutionized the field by introducing the concept of the original position and the veil of ignorance as a means to establish a just and fair society. Rawls argued for a social contract that prioritizes justice and fairness, influencing political thought and policy discussions. His dedication to exploring principles of justice, equality, and the moral foundations of a democratic society has left an enduring impact on philosophy, politics, and social theory. John Rawls is worth knowing for anyone interested in the exploration of justice, ethics, and the foundational principles that underpin a just society.

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