Aristotle's Concept of Justice
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Questions and Answers

What does Aristotle define justice as in a specific sense?

  • Refraining from pleonexia (correct)
  • Always adhering to social norms
  • Seeking personal gain through any means
  • Using power appropriately for leadership

Aristotle's definition of justice primarily applies to the inherent goodness of a person's intentions.

False (B)

What is 'pleonexia'?

Gaining advantage by seizing what belongs to another or denying what is due.

Entitlements are often derived from social institutions and the legitimate expectations to which they give ______.

<p>rise</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the content, what creates the sense of an entitlement?

<p>Social institutions and expectations (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Aristotle's definition of justice is solely based on written laws and regulations.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key aspect of a person's character when they are considered just, according to the content?

<p>A steady and effective desire to act justly.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the concept with its definition:

<p>Pleonexia = Gaining an unfair advantage by taking what belongs to another Justice (Aristotle) = Refraining from pleonexia Entitlements = What is derived from social institutions and legitimate expectations Actions = Where the definition of justice primarily applies</p> Signup and view all the answers

How should the concept of rationality be interpreted?

<p>In a narrow sense, standard in economic theory (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The initial situation should be characterized by stipulations that are controversial.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a main task when developing the conception of justice as fairness?

<p>To determine which principles of justice would be chosen in the original position.</p> Signup and view all the answers

The concept of rationality should be interpreted as taking the most effective means to given ______.

<p>ends</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following concepts to how they are described in the text:

<p>Spiritual Aims = May be opposed Rationality = Interpreted in narrow sense Initial Situation = Characterized by widely accepted stipulations Justice as Fairness = Principles of choice in original position</p> Signup and view all the answers

What kind of aims should people presume to be possibly opposed, similar to different religions?

<p>Spiritual aims (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The author intends to avoid introducing any ethical elements into the concept of rationality.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is required to determine the principles of justice chosen in the original position?

<p>A detailed description of the original position and a carefull formulation of the choice problem.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the ideal relationship individuals should have with societal rules?

<p>Rules they would voluntarily agree to under fair conditions. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The text describes individuals in the initial position as being egoists primarily concerned with gaining wealth, prestige and power.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What term does the text use to describe the state of members of a just society where obligations are seen as self-imposed?

<p>autonomous</p> Signup and view all the answers

The text indicates that each person finds themselves placed at birth in a particular position in a particular ________.

<p>society</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following concepts with their description in the text:

<p>Voluntary Scheme = Society that meets principles agreed upon under fair conditions. Initial Situation = Parties are considered rational and mutually disinterested Justice as Fairness = The attempt to make society as close to voluntary as possible considering birth position Autonomous = Members of the society seeing obligations as self-imposed</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean for the parties to be 'mutually disinterested' in the initial situation?

<p>They do not take an interest in others' interests. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A society can always be a fully voluntary scheme that each individual enters willingly.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic of one's birth impacts future life opportunities?

<p>position</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is justice as fairness considered an example of?

<p>A contract theory (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The term 'contract' is always straightforward and free from misleading connotations.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What allows words like 'utility' and 'utilitarianism' to be understood despite their potential for confusion?

<p>study</p> Signup and view all the answers

To understand the term 'contract' in the context of ethical theories, one must keep in mind that it implies a certain level of ______.

<p>abstraction</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following terms with their associated descriptions in relation to ethical theories:

<p>Contract theory = A method for studying ethical theories Justice as fairness = An example of contract theory Abstraction = A level implied by the term 'contract' Utilitarianism = A term with misleading connotations</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the author suggest is also true of the term 'contract' as it relates to moral theories?

<p>It requires study to understand properly. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Critics have never tried to exploit the potential for confusion regarding the term 'utility'

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is required to understand ethical theories using the contractarian method?

<p>abstraction</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why wouldn't a rational man accept a basic structure that maximizes the sum of advantages?

<p>Because it may negatively impact their basic rights and interests. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The concept of utility is compatible with the notion of social cooperation among equals according to the text.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What concept is described as implicit in the notion of a well-ordered society?

<p>reciprocity</p> Signup and view all the answers

The first principle proposed in the text requires equality in the assignment of basic rights and ___________.

<p>duties</p> Signup and view all the answers

When are social and economic inequalities considered just?

<p>When they result in compensating advantages for everyone. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The text argues that a rational person would always choose a system that maximizes the total benefits even if it negatively impacts them.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the first principle proposed by the author, concerning rights and duties?

<p>equality in the assignment of basic rights and duties</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the items below based on how they are used in the text:

<p>principle of utility = incompatible with social cooperation among equals social and economic inequalities = just only if they result in compensating advantages initial situation = used to choose principles reciprocity = implicit in idea of well-ordered society</p> Signup and view all the answers

What condition does the word 'contract' suggest concerning the division of advantages?

<p>The division should be in accordance with principles acceptable to all parties. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The contract phraseology suggests that principles of justice should remain private.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic that is emphasized by contract theories regarding political principles?

<p>public nature</p> Signup and view all the answers

Using the term 'contract' helps define ideas and accords with natural ________.

<p>piety</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following concepts with their description as it relates to a 'contract':

<p>Plurality = Implied by the word 'contract' Publicity = A condition for principles of justice Agreement = A source for principles Tradition = A tie for contract doctrine</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it beneficial to use the term 'contract'?

<p>It defines ideas and fits with an established tradition. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The 'contract' term is not used in political philosophy to define ideas.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the advantages of using the term 'contract' in discussions of justice?

<p>It stresses the public nature of political principles</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

What is 'pleonexia'?

The act of trying to gain an advantage by unfairly taking what belongs to someone else, such as their property, reward, or position.

Aristotle's view on justice

Acting justly means refraining from 'pleonexia,' which involves respecting others' rights to their property, rewards, and rightful positions.

Justice as a character trait

A person is considered just when they consistently have a strong desire to act fairly and treat others with respect.

What does justice depend on?

The concept of justice involves understanding what is rightfully owed to a person or what they are entitled to.

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Source of entitlements

Social institutions, like laws and agreements, create legitimate expectations that define a person's rights and what they are owed.

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Social institutions and expectations

People's expectations of what they deserve are often shaped by the social rules and established institutions.

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Examples of entitlements

The right to fulfill a promise, repay a debt, or show proper respect are examples of entitlements derived from our social interactions.

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Justice: Actions and Character

Aristotle's definition of justice is focused on actions, but it also acknowledges the importance of having a good character that consistently seeks fairness.

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Justice as Fairness

A concept of justice that uses a hypothetical agreement between rational individuals to determine ethical principles.

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Contractarian Method

A method of studying ethical theories by envisioning rational individuals coming to an agreement.

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The 'Contract' Analogy

The idea that the term 'contract' can be misleading, but useful for understanding ethical theories if interpreted abstractly.

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Contract Theory

A theory of justice where ethical principles are derived from a hypothetical agreement between rational individuals.

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Original Position

The starting point for understanding justice as fairness. It involves individuals who are rational, self-interested, and without knowledge of their own personal advantages or disadvantages.

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Mutually Disinterested

Individuals in the original position are not inherently selfish, but they are not concerned with each other's interests.

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Veil of Ignorance

The concept that individuals in the original position would choose principles that benefit everyone, even if they don't know their own place in society.

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Difference Principle

The idea that society should be structured to benefit the least advantaged members.

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Voluntary Scheme

The principles of justice as fairness ensure a society comes as close as possible to being a voluntary agreement.

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Autonomy

The conditions where all individuals are free to make their own choices, and their actions are not determined by external forces.

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Self-Imposed Obligations

The principles of justice as fairness are considered self-imposed because they are chosen by individuals in the original position, who are seen as representing all members of society.

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Equality in Basic Rights and Duties

A system where everyone has the same fundamental rights and responsibilities, regardless of their differences.

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Just Inequalities

Differences in wealth, power, or opportunities are acceptable only if they benefit everyone, especially the least advantaged.

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Social Cooperation Among Equals

The idea that individuals in a society should cooperate to benefit everyone, treating each other with fairness and respect.

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Utilitarianism

The principle that actions are right if they produce the greatest happiness for the greatest number of people.

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Rational Man

The idea that people are motivated by their own self-interest and a desire for personal gain.

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Basic Rights and Interests

The fundamental rights and interests that individuals have in a society, which cannot be taken away by others for their own benefit.

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Publicity of Justice

The idea that principles of justice should be publicly known and agreed upon by all members of society, like a contract.

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Division of Advantages

The concept that principles of justice should be fair and beneficial to all parties involved, reflecting a balanced agreement.

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Public Nature of Political Principles

The belief that political principles should be openly discussed and accepted by the people they govern.

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Principles of Justice as Agreements

The idea that principles of justice are based on a shared understanding and commitment, similar to a contract.

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Contract Doctrine

The long-standing tradition of using the "contract" metaphor to explain the origin and legitimacy of political principles.

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Publicity of Justice

The emphasis on the public knowledge and acceptance of principles of justice, implying transparency and accountability.

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Fair Division of Advantages

The idea that principles of justice should be beneficial and fair to all parties involved, avoiding unfair advantages.

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Rationality

The concept of rationality in this context emphasizes that individuals should act strategically to maximize their own interests, even if those interests are unknown due to the veil of ignorance. It promotes impartial decision-making and avoiding bias toward one's own potential benefits.

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Initial Situation

The initial situation is the starting point for determining principles of justice. It is characterized by impartiality, rationality, and a focus on universal principles applicable to everyone.

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Principles of Justice

The principles of justice are the fundamental guidelines for a just society, derived from the choices made in the original position. These principles should ensure fairness, equality, and the protection of fundamental rights for all individuals.

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Problem of Choice

The problem of choice is the central question posed within the original position: if individuals were behind a veil of ignorance, which principles of justice would they select to govern their society? This problem lies at the heart of Rawls's theory.

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Goal of Justice as Fairness

The theory of justice as fairness aims to create a just and equitable society by identifying principles that would be chosen by rational individuals in a fair and impartial setting. These principles are meant to ensure that all members of society are treated fairly and that everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed.

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Study Notes

Introduction to Justice as Fairness

  • Justice is the first virtue of social institutions, like truth is of systems of thought.
  • Unjust laws and institutions must be reformed or abolished.
  • Every person possesses an inviolability founded on justice, that even the well-being of society as a whole cannot override.

The Role of Justice

  • Justice is vital for social cooperation
  • Justice refers to the basic structure of society.
  • Justice as fairness generalizes and elevates the social contract
  • It replaces the compact of society with an initial situation that accounts for procedural constraints.
  • It considers utilitarian and intuitionist conceptions, and contrasts them with justice as fairness.

The Subject of Justice

  • Social institutions, laws, systems, actions, attitudes, and dispositions of people to be just or unjust are all matters of justice.
  • Justice is central to the basic structure of society, the way that fundamental rights, duties, and advantages are shared in social cooperation.
  • Major institutions are the constitution, the economy, and social relationships.

The Main Idea of the Theory of Justice

  • Justice as fairness generalizes the social contract.
  • Free and rational individuals with self-interests, in an equal initial position, accept justice principles.
  • These principles govern social cooperation and government.

The Original Position and Justification

  • The original position is the appropriate initial situation to ensure fairness.
  • A conception of justice is more reasonable if rational individuals in the original position would prioritize it.
  • Justification is a problem of deliberation by assessing which principles it's rational to adopt.

Classical Utilitarianism

  • Classical utilitarianism maintains that a just society maximizes the net balance of satisfaction summed over all individuals.
  • It emphasizes the importance of balancing individual gains and losses.
  • Social justice means that institutions should maximize the group's satisfaction, like an individual maximizing their own satisfaction.
  • Utilitarianism is a teleological theory (the good is defined independently of the right) but justice as fairness is not.

Intuitionism

  • Intuitionism presents a plurality of first principles.
  • It involves balancing principles by intuition.
  • Intuitionism does not provide a method for weighing principles against one another and relies on intuitive judgments.
  • A conception of justice requires agreement or common understanding on how principles are weighed.
  • Intuitionism has no overarching framework for deciding on priorities between competing principles.

The Priority Problem

  • The priority problem is about the weight assigned to competing principles of justice.
  • A lexical order for principles (e.g., equal liberty is prioritized over social-economic inequalities) is one approach
  • Another approach involves evaluating the balancing of principles through considered judgments.

Some Remarks about Moral Theory

  • Moral theory must aim at consistency in our judgments.
  • Reflective equilibrium is where our principles and judgments coincide.
  • Moral theory is a complex process involving balancing principles and judgments based on a thorough understanding of moral concepts.

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A Theory of Justice - Original Edition - Chapter I

Description

This quiz explores Aristotle's definition of justice and its implications concerning intentions, entitlements, and the character of just individuals. It also examines the interpretation of rationality and fairness in justice concepts. Test your understanding of these philosophical ideas.

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