80 pages • 2 hours read
A Theory of Justice
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Book Brief
562
Reference/Text Book • Nonfiction
1970s
1971
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
A Theory of Justice by John Rawls introduces the concept of "justice as fairness," advocating for equal basic rights, equality of opportunity, and the improved conditions of society's least advantaged. Utilizing the "original position" and the "veil of ignorance" thought experiment, Rawls develops two principles: one ensuring equal basic liberties, and another prioritizing fair equality of opportunity and the benefit of the least advantaged, framed as the difference principle.
Informative
Contemplative
Challenging
Reviews & Readership
13,218 ratings
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Review Roundup
John Rawls' A Theory of Justice is widely acclaimed for its profound insights on justice, proposing the influential concept of "justice as fairness." Critics praise its rigorous argumentation and philosophical depth. However, some find it dense and challenging to read, criticizing its theoretical abstractions and perceived impracticality for real-world application. Overall, it remains a seminal work in political philosophy.
Who Should Read A Theory of Justice?
A reader who delights in A Theory of Justice by John Rawls is typically immersed in political philosophy and ethics. They might also appreciate Immanuel Kant's Critique of Pure Reason or Robert Nozick's Anarchy, State, and Utopia, reveling in debates on justice, equality, and societal structures.
13,218 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Immanuel Kant
Immanuel Kant
An influential German philosopher known for his work in epistemology and ethics, particularly the “categorical imperative,” emphasizing rationality and universal moral law, which underpins many of Rawls's ideas on justice.
Aristotle
Aristotle
An ancient Greek philosopher whose exploration of virtues and the concept of the “golden mean” in ethical theory contributes to Rawls's understanding of justice as a balance between competing demands of fairness.
562
Reference/Text Book • Nonfiction
1970s
1971
Adult
18+ years
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