Philosophy Distributive Justice Study Cards

Enhance Your Learning with Distributive Justice Flash Cards for quick learning



Distributive Justice

A branch of philosophy that deals with the fair distribution of resources, benefits, and burdens in a society.

Theories of Distributive Justice

Different philosophical frameworks that propose principles for the fair distribution of resources, such as egalitarianism, utilitarianism, and meritocracy.

Principles of Distributive Justice

Guiding principles that determine how resources should be distributed, such as equality, need, desert, and contribution.

Equality vs. Equity

Equality refers to treating everyone the same, while equity focuses on distributing resources based on individual needs and circumstances.

Rawls' Theory of Justice

John Rawls' theory that emphasizes the importance of fairness and justice in the distribution of resources, particularly through the concept of the 'veil of ignorance.'

Nozick's Theory of Justice

Robert Nozick's theory that advocates for minimal government intervention in the distribution of resources, emphasizing individual rights and voluntary transactions.

Utilitarianism and Distributive Justice

The utilitarian approach to distributive justice focuses on maximizing overall happiness or utility in society through resource distribution.

Meritocracy and Distributive Justice

The concept of meritocracy suggests that resources should be distributed based on individual merit, talent, or effort.

Egalitarianism and Distributive Justice

Egalitarianism promotes the idea of equal distribution of resources, regardless of individual differences or contributions.

Social Contract Theory and Distributive Justice

The social contract theory explores the idea that the fair distribution of resources is based on an implicit agreement or contract among members of society.

Critiques of Distributive Justice

Various criticisms of distributive justice, including concerns about the feasibility of implementation, the tension between individual rights and collective welfare, and the challenge of defining 'fairness.'

Rawls' Difference Principle

Rawls' principle that inequalities in the distribution of resources are only justified if they benefit the least advantaged members of society.

Entitlement Theory

Nozick's theory that focuses on the just acquisition and transfer of resources, arguing that individuals are entitled to what they acquire through legitimate means.

Proportional Equality

A principle of distributive justice that suggests resources should be distributed in proportion to an individual's contribution or effort.

Need-Based Allocation

A principle of distributive justice that prioritizes the allocation of resources based on individuals' needs, ensuring basic necessities are met.

Desert-Based Distribution

A principle of distributive justice that advocates for resources to be distributed based on individuals' deservingness or merit.

Redistributive Justice

The concept of redistributing resources from the wealthy or privileged to the less fortunate in order to achieve a more equitable society.

Equality of Opportunity

The principle that all individuals should have equal access to opportunities, regardless of their social or economic background.

Basic Income Guarantee

A policy proposal that suggests providing every citizen with a guaranteed income to ensure a minimum standard of living.

Merit-Based Scholarships

Scholarships awarded based on academic or other achievements, reflecting the principle of meritocracy in resource distribution.

Utilitarian Calculus

The process of weighing the overall happiness or utility generated by different resource distribution scenarios to determine the most just outcome.

Negative Rights

Rights that require others to refrain from interfering with an individual's actions or possessions, often associated with libertarian perspectives on justice.

Positive Rights

Rights that require others to provide certain goods or services to individuals, often associated with social welfare perspectives on justice.

Communitarianism

A political and ethical philosophy that emphasizes the importance of community and collective values in determining the fair distribution of resources.

Equality of Outcome

The principle that resources should be distributed to ensure equal outcomes for all individuals, regardless of their starting point or effort.

Libertarianism

A political philosophy that advocates for minimal government intervention in all aspects of life, including resource distribution.

Rawls' Original Position

The hypothetical scenario in which individuals make decisions about resource distribution behind a 'veil of ignorance,' unaware of their own social or economic position.