WHAT IS SOCIAL JUSTICE?

The term ‘Social Justice’ is derived from a combination of two terms – ‘social’ and ‘justice’.
While the latter implies fair opportunities or equality to all, the former indicates towards
various elements of a society, like class, gender, ethnicity/race, religion, and caste, among
others. Now, since these elements are hierarchically arranged in any given society, it paves
way for discrimination, often perpetuated from the top to the bottom. This acts as an
impediment in ensuring equality to all, irrespective of their location in the hierarchy of these
elements. Thus, taken together ‘social justice’ implies ensuring fairness in opportunities.

DEFINITIONS

 All social primary goods – liberty and opportunity, income and wealth, and the basis
of self-respect are to be distributed equally unless an unequal distribution of any or all
of these goods is to the advantage of the least favoured. (Source: John Rawls. Theory
of Justice. Delhi: Universal Law Pub, 2002. p. 44)

 According to B. R. Ambedkar, social justice is a means to create an ideal or a just

society. To him a just society is a casteless society, based on the principles of social
justice and a combination of three components: liberty, equality and fraternity.
(Source: Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar. Writings and Speeches, Vol. 3. Mumbai:
Government of Maharashtra, 1987. p. 95)

PLATO’S MORAL PHILOSOPHY

Plato's moral philosophy delves into the nature of justice, particularly in works like the
Republic. He argues that justice is essential for individual and societal well-being,
emphasizing the importance of education and the cultivation of virtues. While his hierarchical
view of society has drawn criticism, Plato's exploration of justice remains influential in
understanding moral reasoning and the quest for a just society.

Plato's moral philosophy argues that justice is inherent and vital for individual and societal
well-being. According to Plato, justice involves a harmonious balance within the individual
soul and society, achieved through education and the cultivation of virtues. While his
hierarchical view of society has faced criticism, Plato's exploration of justice remains
influential in understanding moral reasoning and the pursuit of a just society.
THEORIES OF SOCIAL JUSTICE

 UTILITARIANISM – Jeremy Bentham

Utilitarianism, a theory developed by Jeremy Bentham, posits that the moral worth of
an action is determined by its ability to maximize overall happiness or pleasure and
minimize pain or suffering for the greatest number of people. Bentham famously
stated, "It is the greatest happiness of the greatest number that is the measure of right
and wrong."

In terms of social justice, utilitarianism suggests that policies and actions should be
evaluated based on their ability to promote the greatest overall well-being for society
as a whole. This means that social justice, according to utilitarianism, involves
maximizing happiness and minimizing suffering for the largest number of people
possible.

Utilitarianism's focus on maximizing overall well-being can lead to policies that

prioritize the needs of the majority, potentially neglecting the interests of minority
groups or individuals. Critics argue that this approach may overlook important
considerations of fairness, equality, and individual rights, which are central to many
conceptions of social justice.

However, proponents of utilitarianism argue that by maximizing overall well-being,

including the well-being of marginalized groups, it inherently promotes social justice
by striving to create the greatest amount of happiness and the least amount of
suffering for all members of society.

 MARXISM – Karl Marx

Marxism, developed by Karl Marx, is a socio-economic theory that analyzes society

through the lens of class struggle and historical materialism. Marx argued that throughout
history, societies have been characterized by conflicts between different social classes,
particularly between the bourgeoisie (the capitalist class) and the proletariat (the working
class). He believed that capitalism inherently creates inequality and exploitation, as the
bourgeoisie extract surplus value from the labor of the proletariat.
In terms of social justice, Marxism focuses on addressing the systemic injustices and
inequalities inherent in capitalist societies. Marxists argue that true social justice can only
be achieved through the abolition of capitalism and the establishment of a classless
society where the means of production are collectively owned and controlled by the
workers. This would involve the redistribution of wealth and resources, the elimination of
class distinctions, and the establishment of a society where everyone has equal access to
resources and opportunities.

Marxism's emphasis on addressing economic inequality and class-based exploitation is

seen as a form of social justice, as it seeks to create a more equitable society where
everyone's needs are met and where individuals are not subjected to exploitation based on
their class or economic status. However, critics of Marxism argue that its focus on class
struggle overlooks other forms of inequality, such as those based on race, gender, or other
social identities, and that its proposed solutions may lead to authoritarianism or other
negative consequences.

 EXISTENTIALISM – Nietzsche and Manu

Existentialism, as a philosophical movement, explores themes such as individual

freedom, authenticity, and the search for meaning in a seemingly chaotic and meaningless
world. While Friedrich Nietzsche is often associated with existentialist ideas, it's
important to note that he predates the formal development of existentialism as a distinct
philosophical movement. However, his ideas have influenced existentialist thinkers, and
some of his concepts align with existentialist themes.

Nietzsche's philosophy emphasizes the idea of the "will to power," which involves an
individual's drive to assert their own values, overcome challenges, and create their own
meaning in life. He famously proclaimed the "death of God," suggesting that traditional
religious and moral frameworks no longer provide a meaningful basis for morality,
leaving individuals with the responsibility to create their own values.

On the other hand, "Manu" likely refers to Manu Joseph, an Indian journalist and writer,
rather than a specific philosopher or existentialist thinker. While Manu Joseph has written
extensively on contemporary social issues and existential themes in his novels and
articles, he is not typically considered a philosopher in the traditional sense.

In terms of social justice, existentialist ideas, as exemplified by Nietzsche and potentially

reflected in Manu Joseph's works, can be related to individual autonomy and the pursuit
of justice from a subjective standpoint. Existentialism challenges conventional notions of
morality and encourages individuals to question societal norms and create their own
ethical frameworks based on their personal experiences and values.

From this perspective, social justice is not necessarily dictated by external standards or
institutions but emerges from individuals' subjective experiences of injustice and their
efforts to assert their autonomy and define justice on their own terms. However, critics
argue that existentialism's emphasis on individualism and subjective truth may overlook
systemic forms of oppression and the need for collective action to address broader social
injustices.

Overall, while existentialist ideas contribute to discussions about individual agency and
the pursuit of justice, they may present challenges when applied to complex social issues
that require collective solutions and considerations of structural inequalities.

 JOHN RAWL’S THEORY OF JUSTICE

John Rawls' Theory of Justice, outlined in his influential work "A Theory of Justice,"
revolves around the idea of justice as fairness. Rawls argues that principles of justice
should be chosen behind a hypothetical "veil of ignorance," where individuals are
unaware of their own social status, wealth, talents, or other personal characteristics. This
ensures impartiality and fairness in the selection of principles that govern society.

Rawls proposes two principles of justice:

1. The Principle of Equal Basic Liberties: This principle ensures that each person has
equal rights to the most extensive basic liberties compatible with similar liberties for
others. These basic liberties include freedom of speech, assembly, and conscience.

2. The Difference Principle: This principle allows social and economic inequalities only if
they benefit the least advantaged members of society. It aims to ensure that inequalities
are arranged to benefit everyone, particularly the least well-off, by improving their social
and economic position.
 Relating Rawls' theory to social justice, it provides a framework for evaluating and
structuring society to ensure fairness and equality of opportunity. By emphasizing the
importance of impartiality and considering the perspective of the least advantaged, Rawls'
theory aims to address systemic inequalities and promote social justice. It calls for the
creation of institutions and policies that ensure a fair distribution of resources and
opportunities, ultimately striving for a society where everyone has a chance to flourish
regardless of their social or economic status.

 AMBEDKARISM

Ambedkarism refers to the socio-political philosophy and ideology inspired by the teachings
and activism of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, a prominent Indian social reformer, jurist, and architect
of the Indian Constitution. Ambedkarism is deeply rooted in the principles of social justice,
equality, and empowerment of marginalized communities, particularly the Dalits (formerly
known as "untouchables") in India.

Dr. B.R. Ambedkar dedicated his life to fighting against caste-based discrimination and
advocating for the rights of Dalits and other oppressed groups. His philosophy emphasizes
the importance of annihilating caste-based hierarchies and promoting equality through social,
economic, and political reforms.

Ambedkarism is related to social justice in several ways:

1. Anti-Caste Struggle:Ambedkarism focuses on challenging the caste system, which

perpetuates social inequality and discrimination. It calls for the abolition of caste-based
discrimination and the creation of a society where individuals are not judged or oppressed
based on their caste identity.

2. Equal Rights and Opportunities: Ambedkarism advocates for equal rights and opportunities
for all individuals, regardless of their caste, religion, gender, or socioeconomic background. It
emphasizes the need for affirmative action and policies that uplift marginalized communities
and ensure their participation in various spheres of life.

3. Empowerment through Education:Ambedkarism places a strong emphasis on education as

a means of empowerment for marginalized communities. Dr. Ambedkar himself believed that
education was essential for challenging social inequalities and achieving social justice. He
advocated for educational reforms that would provide opportunities for Dalits and other
marginalized groups to access quality education and improve their socio-economic status

4. Political Representation:Ambedkarism calls for political representation and participation of

marginalized communities in the democratic process. Dr. Ambedkar played a crucial role in
securing political rights for Dalits and other oppressed groups in India. His philosophy
emphasizes the importance of political empowerment as a means of achieving social justice
and addressing systemic inequalities.

Overall, Ambedkarism is deeply intertwined with the pursuit of social justice, as it seeks to
address and dismantle structures of oppression, promote equality, and empower marginalized
communities to participate fully in society.

Social justice examples

John Rawls' theory of social justice

One real-life example of John Rawls' theory of social justice in India can be seen in the
implementation of affirmative action policies, particularly in the form of reservations for
historically disadvantaged and marginalized communities in education and employment.

India has a long history of caste-based discrimination, with certain communities facing
systemic oppression and socio-economic marginalization for centuries. In response to this
injustice, the Indian government introduced affirmative action measures, including
reservations in educational institutions, government jobs, and legislative bodies, to ensure
representation and opportunities for these marginalized communities.

Rawls' theory of justice, particularly his Difference Principle, emphasizes the importance of
addressing inequalities and improving the socio-economic position of the least advantaged
members of society. Affirmative action policies in India aim to achieve this by providing
reserved seats or quotas for Dalits (Scheduled Castes), Adivasis (Scheduled Tribes), and
Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in educational institutions and government jobs.

These reservations are based on the recognition of historical injustices and aim to create a
level playing field by ensuring that individuals from marginalized communities have equal
access to education and employment opportunities. By prioritizing the needs of the least
advantaged and promoting their social and economic advancement, these policies align with
Rawls' vision of social justice as fairness.

However, it's important to note that the implementation and effectiveness of affirmative
action policies in India have been a subject of debate and controversy, with concerns raised
about issues such as caste-based identity politics, efficiency, and the potential perpetuation of
stereotypes. Nonetheless, the reservations system in India exemplifies an attempt to address
systemic inequalities and promote social justice, drawing parallels with Rawls' theory of
justice.

MARXISM

In the context of India, a real-life example reflecting elements of Marxist theory can be
observed in the Naxalite or Maoist movements. These movements, particularly active in
certain regions like parts of Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, and Odisha, have roots in socio-
economic disparities, land issues, and perceived injustices faced by tribal and marginalized
communities.

Marxist theory, with its emphasis on class struggle and the critique of capitalist exploitation,
aligns with the grievances of these movements. In many cases, tribal communities have faced
displacement due to industrial projects, mining activities, and government policies, leading to
the loss of their traditional lands and livelihoods.

The Naxalite movements often frame their struggle in terms of a class-based revolution, with
the rural poor, tribal communities, and landless peasants portrayed as the proletariat facing
exploitation by the bourgeoisie, which includes elements of the state and private corporations.

These movements seek to address socio-economic inequalities and injustices by advocating

for the rights of marginalized communities, redistribution of land, and challenging what they
perceive as oppressive structures. The call for a classless society and the collective ownership
of resources, as envisioned in Marxist theory, is reflected in the demands for more equitable
distribution of land and resources put forward by these movements.

It's important to note that the Naxalite movements are controversial, and there are significant
debates about their methods, including the use of violence. The example illustrates, however,
how elements of Marxist theory have been invoked to articulate social justice concerns and
mobilize marginalized communities in India against perceived economic and social injustices.
UTILITARIANISM

A real-life example of utilitarianism, as exemplified by Jeremy Bentham's theory of social

justice, in India can be seen in the implementation of welfare schemes aimed at poverty
alleviation and social development.

One such example is the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act
(MGNREGA) introduced in 2005. This program guarantees 100 days of wage employment in
a financial year to every rural household whose adult members volunteer to do unskilled
manual work. The primary goal of MGNREGA is to enhance the livelihood security of rural
households by providing wage employment opportunities, thereby reducing poverty and
promoting inclusive growth.

From a utilitarian perspective, MGNREGA can be justified as it aims to maximize overall

well-being by addressing the needs of the most disadvantaged members of society,
particularly rural communities facing economic hardships. By providing employment
opportunities and a source of income for rural households, MGNREGA helps alleviate
poverty and improve living standards, contributing to the overall happiness and welfare of
society.

Moreover, MGNREGA's emphasis on community participation, transparency, and

accountability aligns with utilitarian principles of promoting the greatest good for the greatest
number. By prioritizing the welfare of marginalized and vulnerable groups, such as landless
agricultural laborers and marginalized communities in rural areas, MGNREGA reflects a
utilitarian approach to social justice that aims to maximize overall happiness and well-being
by addressing the needs of the most disadvantaged members of society.