Rawls' Justice Principles, Utilitarianism, and Mediation

Rawls' Principles of Justice

Rawls defines two main principles:

• Principle of Equal Liberty

  All people possess the same fundamental freedoms and rights.

• Principle of Economic Inequality

  This principle permits economic inequalities only if they benefit all. It is justified if two conditions are met:

  • Economic inequalities must improve the situation of the least advantaged members of society (the Difference Principle).
  • Economic inequalities must be attached to positions and offices open to all under conditions of Fair Equality of Opportunity.

  Therefore, it is not unfair for some people to be richer than others if these two conditions are met. Such differences may arise because individuals possess varying levels of proficiency, skill, or ability to utilize the equal rights and opportunities society provides.

Reasonable vs. Rational in Rawls

There are differences between what is reasonable and rational:

• The rational pertains to an individual's self-interest – pursuing what they prefer for their own benefit.
• The reasonable, however, involves considering the interests of others, seeking cooperation, and establishing terms of mutual reciprocity, even if it might sometimes conflict with purely individual interests.

By balancing the rational and the reasonable, Rawls argues, a stable and just society can be achieved.

Mediation: Conflict Resolution

Mediation is a conflict resolution process where parties, assisted by a neutral third party (the mediator or facilitator), engage in discussion and negotiation to reach a mutually satisfactory agreement themselves.

Utilitarianism: Hume and Mill

David Hume believed that actions contributing to societal happiness merit approval; essentially, what is useful for people is considered good. John Stuart Mill defined good as synonymous with 'useful,' stating: "Actions are right in proportion as they tend to promote happiness [for the greatest possible number]." He emphasized that individual well-being is interconnected with the welfare of others. This ethical theory is known as Utilitarianism.

Utilitarianism and Industrial Society

Utilitarianism is linked to the Industrial Revolution and the liberal spirit, framing economic and social life as a calculus of individual and collective interests. It's important to note, however, that this ideology significantly influences contemporary society.