Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
John Rawls, in his seminal work *A Theory of Justice* (1971), proposed a framework for a just society based on the principles of fairness and equality. Central to this framework is his conception of the ‘liberal self’ – an individual possessing the capacity for rational thought, capable of forming their own conception of the good life, and prioritizing individual rights and autonomy. However, this individualistic focus has drawn significant criticism, particularly from communitarian thinkers who argue that Rawls neglects the crucial role of social context and shared values in shaping individual identity and moral understanding. This critique challenges the very foundation of Rawlsian justice, asserting that a truly just society must acknowledge and prioritize the importance of community.
Rawls’ Liberal Self: Autonomy and Rationality
Rawls’ theory hinges on the idea of individuals as free and equal moral persons. He posits that each person has a comprehensive doctrine – a set of beliefs about what is good and how life should be lived. Crucially, these doctrines are considered ‘reasonable’ if they can be publicly justified and are not based on unreasonable demands. The ‘liberal self’ is characterized by:
- Autonomy: Individuals are capable of self-governance and making rational choices independent of external pressures.
- Rationality: Individuals possess the capacity to reason and pursue their own conception of the good.
- Two Moral Powers: The capacity for a sense of justice and the capacity to form, revise, and pursue a conception of the good.
- Original Position & Veil of Ignorance: Rawls uses the thought experiment of the ‘original position’ where individuals, behind a ‘veil of ignorance’ (unaware of their social position, talents, etc.), choose the principles of justice. This ensures impartiality.
This emphasis on individual autonomy leads Rawls to prioritize individual rights and freedoms, advocating for a system that maximizes individual liberty compatible with a similar liberty for others.
The Communitarian Critique: A Challenge to Individualism
Communitarian thinkers, such as Alasdair MacIntyre, Michael Sandel, and Charles Taylor, launched a powerful critique of Rawls’ emphasis on the individual. They argue that Rawls’ ‘liberal self’ is an abstraction, divorced from the social and historical contexts that shape individual identity and values. Key arguments include:
- The Social Constitution of the Self: Communitarians contend that individuals are not self-sufficient, autonomous beings but are fundamentally shaped by their communities, traditions, and shared narratives. Our identities, values, and even our capacity for rationality are all products of social interaction.
- The Priority of Community: They argue that the needs and values of the community should take precedence over individual rights in certain circumstances. Rawls’ focus on individual rights, they claim, can lead to social fragmentation and a loss of shared meaning.
- The Problem of Neutrality: Communitarians criticize Rawls’ commitment to ‘political liberalism’ and the idea of state neutrality between different conceptions of the good. They argue that the state inevitably embodies certain values and that a truly just society must be grounded in a shared moral framework.
- Loss of Meaning and Purpose: By prioritizing individual choice, Rawls’ theory, according to communitarians, can lead to a sense of alienation and a loss of meaning and purpose in life.
Specific Communitarian Arguments & Thinkers
| Thinker | Key Argument | Impact on Rawls’ Theory |
|---|---|---|
| Alasdair MacIntyre | Emphasized the importance of traditions and practices in shaping moral understanding. Argued that morality is embedded in specific social contexts. | Challenges the universality of Rawls’ principles of justice, suggesting they are rooted in a particular liberal tradition. |
| Michael Sandel | Critiqued Rawls’ emphasis on individual rights as leading to a ‘procedural republic’ devoid of substantive moral content. | Highlights the potential for Rawlsian justice to undermine shared values and social cohesion. |
| Charles Taylor | Argued for the importance of ‘recognition’ in shaping individual identity. Individuals need to be recognized by others as valuable and meaningful beings. | Suggests that Rawls’ focus on equal rights neglects the importance of addressing issues of social recognition and cultural difference. |
Reconciling Individualism and Community
While the communitarian critique is powerful, it is not without its limitations. A complete rejection of individual rights could lead to oppression and the suppression of minority groups. Some scholars have attempted to reconcile the individualistic and communitarian perspectives, arguing for a balance between individual autonomy and social responsibility. This involves recognizing the importance of community while also safeguarding individual freedoms and promoting inclusivity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Rawls’ idea of the liberal self, while foundational to his theory of justice, is indeed susceptible to the communitarian critique. The emphasis on individual autonomy and rationality, while valuable, overlooks the profound influence of social context and shared values in shaping individual identity and moral understanding. The debate between Rawlsian liberalism and communitarianism remains relevant today, prompting ongoing discussions about the proper balance between individual rights and social responsibility in the pursuit of a just and flourishing society. A nuanced approach acknowledging the interplay between individual agency and communal belonging is crucial for addressing contemporary challenges related to social cohesion, cultural diversity, and political polarization.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.