Philosophy Distributive Justice Questions Medium
The concept of entitlement in relation to distributive justice refers to the idea that individuals have a legitimate claim or right to certain goods, resources, or opportunities based on various factors such as merit, need, or contribution. It is a key principle in determining how resources should be distributed within a society.
Entitlement theories of distributive justice argue that individuals are entitled to the fruits of their labor or the outcomes of their efforts. This means that individuals should be rewarded based on their skills, abilities, and hard work. Proponents of this view believe that people should be able to keep what they have earned and that redistribution of resources through taxation or other means is unjust.
On the other hand, some theories of distributive justice emphasize entitlement based on need. According to these theories, individuals are entitled to resources based on their basic needs or the extent to which they are disadvantaged. This perspective argues that society has a moral obligation to provide for those who are less fortunate or in need, even if it means redistributing resources from those who have more.
Another aspect of entitlement in distributive justice is the concept of contribution. Some theories argue that individuals are entitled to resources based on their contribution to society or the common good. This can include factors such as the value of their work, their participation in public goods, or their contribution to the overall welfare of society.
Overall, the concept of entitlement in relation to distributive justice recognizes that different individuals may have different claims or rights to resources based on factors such as merit, need, or contribution. The specific criteria for entitlement can vary depending on the theory or perspective, but the underlying idea is to ensure a fair and just distribution of resources within a society.