Rawls vs. Schmitt: Political Theory Contrasts

Introduction

• Rawls and Schmitt represent contrasting perspectives in political theory.
• Rawls, a liberal theorist, emphasizes individual rights and justice within a democratic framework.
• Schmitt, a conservative theorist, prioritizes state sovereignty and decisive political action.

Rawls's Theory of Justice

• Rawls proposes principles of justice derived from an original position, a hypothetical state of equal opportunity.
• This "veil of ignorance" ensures individuals are unaware of their social standing, wealth, or abilities, fostering impartiality.
• Rawls outlines two principles of justice:
  • First Principle: Equal basic liberties for all, compatible with similar liberties for others.
  • Second Principle: Social and economic inequalities are justified only if they benefit everyone, and positions of power are accessible to all.
• Rawls's theory stresses fairness and equality in resource distribution and opportunity.
• It advocates for a just society based on mutual respect and reciprocal advantage.
• Rawls focuses on societal structure and rules to create a well-ordered society characterized by cooperation and shared values.

Schmitt's Concept of the Political

• Schmitt defines the political as the distinction between friend and enemy.
• This distinction is fundamental to politics, defining the boundaries of conflict and cooperation.
• Schmitt's theory emphasizes state power for maintaining order and security.
• Political decisions, according to Schmitt, are absolute and irreducible, transcending legal or moral constraints.
• Schmitt highlights the sovereign's role in making critical choices during crises.
• The identification of "friend" and "enemy" is inherently political, not legal or moral.
• Schmitt's theory questions the possibility of a neutral or universally applicable political framework.

Divergences Between Rawls and Schmitt

• Rawls and Schmitt disagree fundamentally on the nature of politics and the state's role.
• Rawls prioritizes individual rights and liberties, while Schmitt emphasizes state power and sovereignty.
• Rawls champions a liberal democratic society governed by the rule of law; Schmitt views politics as a struggle for power and control.
• Rawls's emphasis on fairness and equality contrasts sharply with Schmitt's focus on political will and decisive action.
• Rawls's justice theory is procedural, emphasizing fairness for all; Schmitt's political theory focuses on conflict and decision-making.
• Rawls prioritizes a comprehensive vision of society without limiting sovereign powers, in contrast to Schmitt's focus on national self-determination.

Points of Agreement

• Both theorists acknowledge the need for social order and stability.
• Both address the challenges of maintaining order during political crises.
• Both recognize the importance of conflict in shaping political outcomes.
• Despite differing approaches, both contribute to vital debates in political theory regarding societal structure and conflict resolution.
• Both theorists have significantly impacted contemporary political thought.

Conclusion

• Rawls and Schmitt, despite their contrasting approaches, provide valuable insights into political dynamics.
• Their differing perspectives highlight the ongoing debate surrounding justice, sovereignty, and the political process.
• Understanding their perspectives strengthens our comprehension of diverse viewpoints within political theory.