Philosophy Distributive Justice Questions Medium
According to Robert Nozick, the main principles of distributive justice can be summarized as follows:
1. The principle of entitlement: Nozick argues that individuals are entitled to the fruits of their labor and the resources they acquire through voluntary exchanges. This principle emphasizes the importance of individual rights and property rights, suggesting that people have a right to keep what they have legitimately acquired.
2. The principle of historical justice: Nozick believes that a just distribution of resources can be achieved through a historical process of acquisition, transfer, and rectification. This principle acknowledges that historical circumstances and past actions can influence the current distribution of resources, but it does not require an equal distribution.
3. The principle of minimal state: Nozick advocates for a minimal state that only focuses on protecting individual rights and enforcing contracts. He argues against any form of wealth redistribution or extensive government intervention in economic affairs, as he believes it violates individual liberty and property rights.
4. The principle of voluntary cooperation: Nozick emphasizes the importance of voluntary cooperation among individuals in society. He argues that individuals should be free to enter into agreements and exchanges based on their own choices, without any coercion or interference from the state.
Overall, Nozick's principles of distributive justice prioritize individual rights, voluntary exchanges, and limited government intervention. He argues that a just distribution of resources can be achieved through respecting individual entitlements and allowing individuals to freely engage in voluntary cooperation.