Distributive Justice, Retributive Justice, and Punishment
Distributive Justice
Distributive justice
Distributive justice refers to the fair allocation of resources, opportunities, and responsibilities within a society.
It addresses questions such as:
- What is a fair distribution of wealth and resources?
- How should opportunities be allocated to ensure equality or equity?
- What principles should guide the distribution of benefits and burdens?
Key Theories of Distributive Justice
Egalitarianism
- Principle: Advocates for equal distribution of resources and opportunities.
- Justification: Emphasizes moral equality and the intrinsic value of each individual.
- Critique: Critics argue that strict equality may ignore individual differences and incentives for productivity.
A society implementing egalitarianism might provide universal basic income to ensure everyone has a minimum standard of living.
Utilitarianism
- Principle: Seeks to maximize overall happiness or utility.
- Justification: Distributions are just if they lead to the greatest good for the greatest number.
- Critique: May overlook individual rights and justify inequalities if they increase overall utility.
A utilitarian approach might prioritize healthcare for those whose treatment would result in the greatest increase in overall well-being.
Libertarianism
- Principle: Emphasizes individual freedom and property rights.
- Justification: Distributions are just if they result from voluntary exchanges and respect for property rights.
- Critique: Critics argue that libertarianism can lead to significant inequalities and fail to address systemic injustices.
Libertarians might oppose progressive taxation, viewing it as a violation of property rights.
Rawlsian Justice
- Principle: Based on John Rawls' theory of justice as fairness.
- Justification: Proposes two principles: 1. Equal basic liberties for all. 2. Social and economic inequalities are justified if they benefit the least advantaged (the difference principle).
- Critique: Some argue Rawls' theory is too idealistic or complex to implement.
Rawls' veil of ignorance thought experiment asks us to design a society without knowing our own position, ensuring fairness and impartiality.
Retributive Justice and Punishment
Retributive justice
Retributive justice focuses on the fair and proportional response to wrongdoing. It is closely related to the concept of punishment, which serves various purposes in society.
Key Principles of Retributive Justice
- Proportionality
