The Strength Of Rawls Social Contract Theory - 1160 Words

The strength of Rawls’ Social Contract Theory is most obvious when compared with other ethical theories. In my discussion with Professor Hill, it was made apparent to me that I should focus on the main concepts we have discussed in this unit: empathy, rationality, and fallibility. One theory that is easily comparable is Ethical Egoism. Ethical Egoism claims that every action committed by human beings must be out of self-interest. Anything done for another individual is considered unethical for an egoist (Hill, Egoism, slide 2). The flaw with this ethical theory can be best explained using a modus ponens valid argument type: If A, then B: If a theory lacks empathy, then it is not the correct ethical theory. A: Ethical Egoism lacks empathy. Therefore, B: Therefore, Ethical Egoism is not the correct ethical theory. With Ethical Egoism, the interests of others are not taken into account. Empathy is an essential part of any ethical theory because the outcome of an event usually involves more than one individual. If one lacks the ability to put themselves into the perspective of another individual, then they should not be making any decision regarding that individual because it could harm them. While Rawls’ Social Contract Theory is based on some degree of self-interest, this self-interest is converted into a form that benefits everyone. Therefore, self-sacrificing may take place in order to appease the emotions of others so as to keep the balance and avoid chaos. In one ofShow MoreRelatedveil of ignorance1674 Words   |  7 Pagesâ€Å"Argumentatively discuss the strengths and weaknesses of John Rawls’ ‘Veil of Ignorance’ method† In John Rawls A Theory of Justice, he argues that morally, society should be constructed politically as if we were all behind a veil of ignorance; that is, the rules and precepts of society should be constructed as if we had no prior knowledge of our future wealth, talents, and social status, and could be placed in any other persons societal position (Velasquez, 2008). Through this, Rawls believes that peopleRead MoreRawls Theory Of Justice1598 Words   |  7 PagesFundamentally, Rawls aims to present a conception of justice that serves the social contract theory more generally and abstractly than such social contract theories provided by Locke, Rousseau, and Kant. 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His theory is thoroughly explained through a pre-societal position called the original position, the notion of the veil of ignorance, and the two principles of justice. Rawls starts out by describing