Rawls’ Theory

of Justice
Lara Shane F. Dizon
BSIE – 1A
John Rawls

“Is the first virtue of

the institution, as
truth is of systems
of thought.”
- Maboloc,CR.(2009)
Rawls’ Theory of Justice

• Rawls believed that every individual is

inviolable.
• He disagreed with the idea of
utilitarianism regarding the concept of
happiness of the greatest number.
• Rawls held that the principle of
inviolability of every individual is so
sacred.
Rawls’ Theory of Justice

• In Rawls concept of justice, it was

pointed out as well that an erroneous
theory is tolerable in the absence of a
good one.
• Rawls held that people should choose
which of the two would be considered
better and the less erroneous.
Rawls’ Theory of Justice

• The third concept of Rawls’ justice is

that individual liberties should be
restricted in order to maintain equality
of opportunity.
• Liberties of equal citizenship are of
paramount importance in a just
society.
Four Types of Duties

Fairness in our Fidelity

dealings with others

Respect for others Beneficence

• Fairness in our dealings with others
– “Meant to secure the equality of men and women
in the whole scheme of social cooperation” –
Maboloc,CR.2009

• Fidelity
– Requires us to be honest, to keep promises, and
to comply with contracts voluntarily made.
• Respect for others
– Acknowledge a person’s right to make
choices, to hold views, and to take actions
based on personal values and beliefs
• Beneficence
- Provide benefits to persons and contribute to
their welfare. Refers to an action done for the
benefit of others
 Four Natural Duties

•The duty of justice;

•The duty of helping others in need or in
jeopardy;
•The duty not to harm or injure others; and
•The duty to keep our promises

- Timbreza
Rawls’ Theory of Justice

Prima Facie

literally mean “ at first view”

legally convincing first impression
unless disproved by contrary evidence
Critique on the Ethical Principle
of John Rawls

• Rawls’ ethical principle was clearly an

attempt to make clear the ethical doctrines
of utilitarianism.
• A person who looks up to his wealth and
rationality would have the tendency to look
down at others who are not gifted with
wealth and intelligence.
Critique on the Ethical Principle
of John Rawls

• Rational being will always be restless until

he finds the meaning and purpose of life.
• Rawls considered utilitarianism to be
lacking in justice.
• His concept of justice, “liberties of
individuals should be restricted provided
that such restrictions are for the benefit of
everyone.”
 References

• Buenaflor,L.,Masarap,A.,Boleche,C.,&
Bustamante,J.(2018) Unraveling the Absolute
Moral Principles: Ethics for Filipino Students
(pp.168-169) Mandaluyong City
• Maboloc,CR.(2009) Philosophy of Man: The
Existence Drama (pp 63)