An Analysis of John Rawls's A Theory of Justice

John Rawls''s A Theory of Justice is one of the most influential works of legal and political theory published since the Second World War. It provides a memorably well-constructed and sustained argument in favour of a new (social contract) version of the meaning of social justice. In setting out this argument, Rawls aims to construct a viable, systematic doctrine designed to ensure that the process of maximizing good is both conscious and coherent ¿ and the result is a work that foregrounds the critical thinking skill of reasoning. Rawls''s focus falls equally on discussions of the failings of existing systems ¿ not least among them Marxism and Utilitarianism ¿ and on explanation of his own new theory of justice. By illustrating how he arrived at his conclusions, and by clearly explaining and justifying his own liberal, pluralist values, Rawls is able to produce a well structured argument that is fully focused on the need to persuade.

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