Model Answer

Introduction

John Rawls, a renowned political philosopher, is celebrated for his theories on social justice and political liberalism. His ideas center around distributive justice, emphasizing the equitable distribution of social goods and resources among members of society. In the Indian context, Rawls’s principles offer valuable insights for addressing systemic inequalities.

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Principles of Justice

Rawls proposes “justice as fairness,” which includes:

1. Equal Basic Liberties: Ensuring fundamental rights for all individuals.
2. Fair Equality of Opportunity: Providing everyone with equal chances to succeed.
3. Difference Principle: Allowing inequalities only if they benefit the least advantaged.

Example: The reservation system in India aims to provide educational and employment opportunities to historically marginalized communities, aligning with Rawls’s principle of fair equality of opportunity.

Veil of Ignorance

Rawls suggests that policies should be determined from an impartial standpoint, known as the “veil of ignorance,” where decision-makers are unaware of their societal positions.

Example: The Right to Education Act (2009) guarantees free and compulsory education for children aged 6 to 14, reflecting decisions made for the benefit of all children, regardless of socio-economic status.

Redistribution of Resources

Rawls advocates for resource redistribution to foster equity.

Example: The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) provides 100 days of guaranteed employment annually to rural households, addressing poverty and inequality.

Social Cooperation

Rawls emphasizes social cooperation for justice.

Example: The Self-Help Group (SHG) movement empowers women through collective action, fostering economic independence and community support.

Human Rights and Social Justice

Rawls insists on protecting human rights to achieve social justice.

Example: The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act safeguards marginalized groups, promoting equal treatment and addressing discrimination.

Conclusion

Rawls’s framework for social justice, emphasizing fair distribution and equality, can significantly contribute to building a more just society in India. By aligning policies with his principles, India can address systemic inequalities and enhance social cooperation, ultimately fostering a more equitable society.