50 pages • 1 hour read
Justice as Fairness: A Restatement
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Book Brief
214
Book • Nonfiction
1970s
2001
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Justice as Fairness: A Restatement by John Rawls revises his earlier work, A Theory of Justice, to outline principles for a politically liberal society based on justice, rationality, and reasonable pluralism. Rawls argues for a society structured on equal basic liberties and benefits for the least advantaged, using the hypothetical "original position" to ensure fairness. The text discusses implementing these principles through institutions like property-owning democracy or liberal socialism, emphasizing a constitutional democracy and the family unit to prepare future citizens.
Informative
Contemplative
Challenging
Inspirational
Reviews & Readership
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Review Roundup
Justice as Fairness by John Rawls garners significant praise for its comprehensive and accessible articulation of Rawls's influential philosophy. Critics laud its clarity and structured approach, making complex ideas understandable. Some find it overly theoretical and occasionally dense, but it remains highly regarded for thoughtful insights into political theory.
Who Should Read Justice as Fairness?
A reader who would enjoy Justice as Fairness by John Rawls is likely interested in political philosophy, ethics, and social theory. They may appreciate the thorough argumentation and theoretical depth similar to works like A Theory of Justice by Rawls himself or Robert Nozick's Anarchy, State, and Utopia.
1,626 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
John Stuart Mill
John Stuart Mill
A 19th-century English philosopher and parliamentarian recognized for his advocacy of utilitarianism and individual liberty, often seen as Rawls's main philosophical rival in the context of liberal political theory.
214
Book • Nonfiction
1970s
2001
Adult
18+ years
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