Ethics · 2016Ethics10 MarksSection A
Q14.Analyse John rawls’s concept of social justice in the Indian Context.
Directive: Analyse10 marks
Introduction
John Rawls's 'justice as fairness' theory proposes a just society derived from an 'original position' behind a 'veil of ignorance', ensuring impartial principles for societal structure.
Body
Key Principles
- Equal basic liberties for all.
- Socio-economic inequalities must benefit the least advantaged (Difference Principle) and be attached to offices open to all.
Relevance in India
Rawls's pursuit of social and economic justice aligns with India's Constitutional Preamble (Justice, Equality) and DPSPs. Affirmative action, like reservations, reflects the Difference Principle, aiming to uplift historically disadvantaged groups. Welfare state initiatives and poverty alleviation schemes also prioritize the least advantaged.
Challenges
- Complexities of caste and deep economic disparities.
- Practical implementation of ideal justice principles in a diverse democracy.
Conclusion
Despite these challenges, Rawls's framework provides a valuable lens for evaluating and striving towards a more equitable and just social order in India, reinforcing constitutional ideals.
139 words · target ~150