Philosophy Liberal Democracy Quiz

How does Rawls define the basic structure of society?

the system of major social, political and economic institutions- like the constitution, legal system and economy- that distribute fundamental rights, duties, and advantages among people.

Why does Rawls think it’s most important to get the basic structure right when defining justice?

Because these institutions shapes everyone’s opportunities and life chances; if the structure is just, individual actions within it are more likely to be just

what are the three levels of justice Rawls identifies?

1) the constitution 2) the legislation and 3) Everyday social and economic arrangements

What does the constitutional level of justice focus on?

Ensuring fair political rights and the structure of government

What does the legislative level of justice focus on?

Creating laws that align with the constitution and principles of fairness

What does the everyday social and economic level of justice focus on?

How daily institutions (schools, workplaces, market) operate fairly under those laws

What is the original position in Rawls’ theory?

A thought experiment where people design the principles of justice from behind a “veil of ignorance”, unaware of their personal traits or social status

What is the purpose of the original position?

To ensure fairness by forcing people to choose principles that benefit everyone equally, since no one knows what position they’ll hold in society

What information do you have behind the veil of ignorance?

Rationality, reasonableness, a sense of justice, and general knowledge about human society and psychology

What information do you lack behind the veil of ignorance?

Personal information such as race, gender, wealth, intelligence, talents, religion, and life goals

Why does Rawl’s remove personal identity in the original position?

To make moral reasoning impartial- justice should not depend on who you are and where you were born

According to Rawls, what does removing personal identity show about morality

That morality is based on universal fairness and principles anyone could agree to, regardless of their situation

What is reflective equilibrium?

By adjusting both your moral judgements and theoretical principles until they align in a stable, consistent way

How does Rawls connect his philosophy to classical liberalism?

He shares its focus on individual liberty and equal rights but adds that freedom must be balanced by fairness and equality of opportunity

How does Rawls’ view differ from laissez-faire liberalism?

He argues that true liberty requires fair starting conditions and support for the least advantaged, not just free markets

What is Rawls First Principle of Justice?

The Equal Basic Liberties Principle- everyone has equal rights to the most extensive basic freedoms compatible with the same freedoms for others

What is Rawls Second Principle of Justice?

The Difference Principle and the Fair Equality of Opportunity- inequalities are only just if they benefit the least advantaged and all positions are open to everyone

What does the Difference Principle specifically require?

That social and economic inequalities work to the advantage of the least well-off in society

What does the Fair Equality of Opportunity require?

That everyone has a genuine chance to compete for positions, not just formal equality on paper

In what order should Rawls’ two principles of justice be applied?

The liberty principle has priority- basic rights and freedoms must be secured before addressing inequalities

According to Weil what does she see at the center of the human heat?

The need for good- a sacred core in every person that calls for respect and attention

What power in humans does Weil focus our attention on?

The power to give attention to other's needs- the ability to recognize and respond to the humanity in another person

If we are all unequal in this world, where does Weil find a reason for seeing equality?

In the sacredness of the human soul- all people are equal in moral worth because each has an inviolable inner value, not because of their social position or abilities

What would Simone Weil answer Cain’s question “Am I my brother’s keeper?”

She would say yes- every human being had an unconditional responsibility to care for and protect others because each soul is sacred

What kinds of people would Weil prefer to have banned from being in power over others?

Those who are motivated by pride, greed, or the desire for domination- anyone who lacks humility, compassion, or a sense of duty towards others.

according to Weil, what makes a government illegitimate?

if it fails to serve the sacred dignity of its citizens

How does it makes sense for Weil to say the soul needs both equality and inequality?

The soul needs equality to feel respected and valued like others, but also non-equality to give and receive special forms of love, gratitude, and admiration that make human relationships meaningful

How does it makes sense to say we have a need for both liberty and obedience?

We need liberty to act freely and follow conscience, but also obedience to submit to truth, justice, and moral order- freedom must be guided by something higher

Why are truth and freedom of expression at odds according to Weil?

Because unlimited freedom of expression can spread lies and noise that obscure truth