Rawls's theory of distributive justice is, in essence, surprisingly simple. Primary goods should be distributed equally, except in cases where equal distribution would be inequitable, in which case they should be distributed to favor those who are disadvantaged, thereby increasing equality. This exception is known as the difference principle.
Rawls defines primary goods as the things everyone wants. There are natural primary goods, such as intelligence and beauty, but since these cannot be redistributed, he concentrates on discussing social primary goods, such as opportunity, freedom, and wealth.
Suppose that there is a competitive examination for places at a prestigious college. Rawls would argue that if all the students come from similar backgrounds, their grades alone should determine whether they are admitted. However, the difference principle supports affirmative action in cases where some students are from disadvantaged backgrounds. A student who has never been coached or encouraged and who nonetheless scores 80% may well be showing more ability than one who has attended an elite preparatory school and scores 90%.
Rawls's theory is complicated by his admission that natural primary goods are just as arbitrary as social primary goods. Students do not choose to be intelligent any more than they choose to have rich parents. Distributive justice therefore demands that there is greater equality, for instance, between those who attended elite colleges and those who did not, regardless of whether students at those colleges were selected in an equitable manner.
Get Ahead with eNotes
Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.
Already a member? Log in here.