I think it's important to note first that the concept of distributive justice goes back to classical philosophy where Aristotle discussed it in Nicomachean Ethics where resources are distributed based on merit rather than strict equality (Aristotle, ca. 350 B.C.E./1925). Over the centuries, many philosophers would create their own theories surrounding distributive justice such as Thomas Hobbes, who viewed justice as the product of social contracts in which people give up certain freedoms for state protection and social order (Hobbes, 1996). In addition, John Locke stated that natural rights to life, liberty, and property, asserting that just governance must safeguard these rights and ensure equitable distribution (Locke, 1988). Jean-Jacques Rousseau argued that justice arises when individual interests align with the collective will to promote equality and serve the common good (Rousseau, 2017). Marx critiqued capitalism as unjust, insisting that true justice requires abolishing class divisions and redistributing resources according to need (Marx, 2010).
What John Rawls (1971) - In A Theory of Justice, did was re-frame distributive justice in modern social political policy that is relevant to the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) ethical principles of social justice, and dignity and worth of the person through influencing modern social welfare policies in equity and fairness for all (National Association of Social Workers, 2021; Rawls, 1971).
The objective of Rawls’ theory of social justice is that Rawls believed that a just society is one where social and economic inequalities are created in a way that benefits everyone, especially the marginalized and disadvantaged. His framework is not about perfect equality, but about fairness in how opportunities and resources are distributed. Rawls theory focuses on equal basic liberties, fair equality of opportunity, and the difference principle, which allows inequalities only if they benefit the marginalized and disadvantaged. Rawls goal is a legitimate, stable, and just order that rational people would endorse. In addition, the welfare state should ensure the stability of society’s “basic structure” by instituting a just distribution of goods and opportunities. predicts that when policies are guided by the “difference principle,” society will experience reductions in inequality while still preserving fundamental freedoms (Rawls, 1972).
The assumptions of Rawls’ theory of social justice assumes people are free, equal, rational, and cautious when making decisions behind the veil of ignorance. It holds that institutions can be designed to secure equal basic rights and fair opportunities, while still allowing inequalities if they benefit marginalized groups. Rawls theory sees welfare as a moral duty focused on fairness and equity, not just efficiency (Rawls, 1972).
The key concepts in Rawls’ theory of social justice include the original position, veil of ignorance, equal basic liberties, fair equality of opportunity, and the difference principle. These provide a baseline for evaluating fairness in institutions and policies (Rawls, 1972). Justice is a property of the basic structure of society, not only of individual acts (Hantal, n.d.).
In Rawls’ theory of social justice framework, social work policy practice should focus on promoting fairness by protecting liberties, ensuring equitable and fair access to opportunities, and prioritizing policies that benefit the marginalized and disadvantaged communities. Rawls theory supports progressive taxation, equitable education, and universal access to healthcare and social protections (e.g., health, housing, education). Rawls’ theory of social justice offers a moral and ethical compass to evaluate whether institutions and organizations provide fair and equitable practices (Rawls, 1972). For social work policy practice, this might mean providing evidence-based data to policy makers, equity audits, and creating grassroot initiatives that justify policy reforms (Weible, 2020; Hantal, n.d.).
As a guiding theory, John Rawls has his own interpretation of distributive justice, creating the concept of Rawls Principle of Difference, which proposed two principles: equal basic liberties for all, and the allowing inequalities only if they benefit the marginalized and disadvantage (Rawls, 1971). According to Professor Geoffrey Sayre-McCord, someone with a disability may deserve more support, or if someone promises to take care of a friend’s pets, the friend now has a new right to that care. Breaking the promise would be an injustice, even if doing something else might create more happiness overall (Wireless Philosophy, 2015).
Social practices, laws, and even past injustices all shape what people can claim today, which makes justice messy and complex. Instead of simple equality, justice requires balancing fairness, history, and human relationships to avoid creating new injustices while trying to solve old ones which aligns with the social workers purpose for the well-being of all (National Association of Social Workers).