A Theory of Justice

by John Rawls
A Theory of Justice cover
Good Books rating 3.62
Philosophy
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  • ID: 5391
  • Added: 2025-10-23
  • Updated: 2025-12-30
  • ISBN: 9780674042582
  • Publisher: Harvard University Press
  • Published: 2009-07-01
  • Formats: 2
  • Reviews: 4

A Theory of Justice by John Rawls is a seminal work in political philosophy that presents a comprehensive theory of justice based on the principles of fairness and equality. Rawls argues that a just society is one that would be chosen by rational individuals behind a 'veil of ignorance,' where they do not know their own social or economic status. This thought experiment leads to the formulation of two key principles: the liberty principle, which guarantees equal basic liberties, and the difference principle, which permits social and economic inequalities only if they benefit the least advantaged members of society. /n/n First published in 1971, this influential book has sparked decades of debate and discussion among philosophers, politicians, and scholars. Rawls' innovative approach combines rigorous analytical methods with a deep concern for social justice, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the foundations of a fair and equitable society. The book's impact extends beyond academia, influencing policy discussions and shaping the way we think about justice in modern times.

Reviews
Timothy R. Keen · 2020-01-17
frustrating 2.50

The book is overly long and repetitive, with issues in prose style. Despite its length, it offers valuable insights into justice.

This book is twice as long as it needs to be, with the author being long-winded and repetitive. The prose style is also problematic, with issues in comma usage. However, despite these flaws, the book provides valuable insights into the concept of justice. The author's ideas are thought-provoking, even if the execution could be improved. Readers should be prepared for a dense and sometimes frustrating read, but the intellectual rewards are worth the effort.

Quick quotes

    This book is twice as long as it needed to be.

    The author is long winded, repetitive, and doesn't appear to know why we use commas in prose.

    The book provides valuable insights into the concept of justice.

Reddit - Neoliberal · 2020-01-01
insightful 4.50

The book is considered one of the most important in political philosophy for its historical value. It is recommended for its profound impact on the field.

The Reddit review emphasizes the historical importance of A Theory of Justice, noting it as one of the most significant works in political philosophy. The reviewer appreciates the book's profound impact on the field and recommends it for its foundational insights. While the review does not delve into specific criticisms, it highlights the book's enduring relevance and the valuable discussions it provokes. The community's consensus seems to be that the book's historical and theoretical contributions outweigh any potential flaws.

Quick quotes

    The book itself is probably one of the most important in political philosophy ever

    For historical value it's great

    I would still recommend it

The Guardian · 2011-08-27
challenging 3.50

The book is a dense and comprehensive theory of justice, making it a challenging read. It is thorough and intricate, covering a wide range of political philosophy.

This book is a monumental work in political philosophy, offering a comprehensive theory of justice. It's a dense and intricate read, spanning 560 pages of complex ideas. The author delves deeply into the principles of justice, making it a challenging but rewarding read for those interested in political theory. The thoroughness and depth of the analysis are commendable, but the book's complexity may be daunting for casual readers.

Quick quotes

    This is a long, intricate, technical and comprehensive theory, 560 pages of dense political philosophy.

    It is a hard read and time consuming;

    The author delves deeply into the principles of justice, making it a challenging but rewarding read for those interested in political theory.

Swarthmore College · H Oberdiek · 1972-01-01
significant 4.00

The book addresses moral, political, and social issues with sensitivity and force. It is a significant contribution to the field of philosophy.

In this work, John Rawls demonstrates a remarkable ability to tackle contemporary moral, political, and social issues with both sensitivity and force. The book is a significant contribution to philosophical discourse, offering a fresh perspective on justice and its applications. The author's arguments are compelling and thought-provoking, making it a valuable read for anyone interested in philosophy. The depth and breadth of the analysis are impressive, though some readers might find the density of the text challenging.

Quick quotes

    John Rawls demonstrates that one can address living moral, political and social issues sensitively and forcefully

    A Theory of Justice is a significant contribution to the field of philosophy.

    The author's arguments are compelling and thought-provoking, making it a valuable read for anyone interested in philosophy.

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