Question

(CO 9) John Rawls suggests that there are circumstances in which inequality is just or what he terms fair. What is Rawls’ argument for this?

A	All of the above

B	Inequality is fair when leadership has been democratically elected.

C	Inequality is fair when certain people agree to take the brunt of the environmental bad on behalf of the good.

D	Inequality is fair, as long as it is for everyone’s advantage (for example, the authority of parents over their children).

Answer 1

Solution: Inequality is fair, as long as it is for everyone’s advantage (for example, the authority of parents over their children).

Explanation: John Rawls suggests equality of opportunity, equal basic rights, and promoting the interests of the least advantaged members of society. In his opinion the inequality is acceptable only if it is to the beneficial for those who are worst-off. Thus it is fair when everyone’s advantage (for instance, the authority of parents over their children).