Justice as reciprocity from "summary" of A Theory of Justice, Revised Edition by John Rawls,Professor John Rawls
The concept of justice as reciprocity is a fundamental aspect of the theory of justice put forward by John Rawls. According to this concept, justice is seen as a reciprocal relationship between individuals in society. This means that individuals in society are expected to uphold principles of justice in their interactions with one another, and in return, they can expect others to do the same. Reciprocity in justice involves a mutual exchange of respect, fairness, and cooperation among individuals. It is based on the idea that in order for a society to be just, individuals must be willing to treat each other with fairness and respect. This mutual exchange forms the basis of a just social contract, where individuals agree to abide by certain principles of justice in order to create a just and stable society. In the context of Rawls' theory of justice, reciprocity is closely tied to the principles of justice that individuals are expected to uphold. These principles include the idea of equal basic rights and liberties for all individuals, as well as the principle of fair equality of opportunity. By adhering to these principles, individuals can ensure that justice is upheld in society and that everyone has an equal chance to succeed. Reciprocity in justice also involves a sense of fairness and impartiality in how individuals are treated. This means that individuals should not show favoritism or bias towards certain groups or individuals, but rather treat everyone with equal respect and consideration. By upholding these principles of fairness and impartiality, individuals can contribute to a more just and equitable society for all.- The concept of justice as reciprocity highlights the importance of mutual respect, fairness, and cooperation among individuals in society. By upholding principles of justice and treating others with respect, individuals can create a more just and stable society where everyone has an equal chance to thrive.
