John Rawls: Theory of Justice

We will read and discuss John Rawls’ A Theory of Justice. This book is an influential and comprehensive attempt to provide a philosophical justification for a conception of justice that supports broad civil, economic, and political liberties within tolerant democratic political institutions. Rawls carries out his argument by means of a version of social contract theory that seeks to replace more familiar appeals to utility and efficiency. The book has been widely read and vigorously challenged since the first version was published in 1971. We will read it together and examine its arguments for ourselves. The text: A Theory of Justice, Revised Edition, by John Rawls (Harvard University Press, 1999). Be sure that you read the Revised Edition.

Course Outline

Course Syllabus

Notes

Online registration closes June 4 at 5 pm CT.

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