Topic : Ethics and Human Interface: Essence, determinants and consequences of Ethics in-human actions; dimensions of ethics; ethics – in private and public relationships. Human Values – lessons from the lives and teachings of great leaders, reformers and administrators; role of Family society and educational institutions in inculcating values.
7. Explain how John Rawls intends to use “veil of ignorance’ for distribution and redistribution of resources and responsibilities? Is it ethically consistent? (250 words)
Reference: Ethics, Integrity and aptitude by Lexicon Publications
Why the question:
The question intends to ascertain the role of the veil of ignorance in Rawls theory of distributive justice.
Key Demand of the question:
Discuss the role of the veil of ignorance in Rawls theory of distributive justice and give your opinion as to whether it is ethically consistent.
Directive:
Explain – Clarify the topic by giving a detailed account as to how and why it occurred, or what is the particular context. You must be defining key terms where ever appropriate, and substantiate with relevant associated facts.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
The Veil of Ignorance, a component of social contract theory, allows us to test ideas for fairness. First brief upon what veil of ignorance is.
Body:
Rawls suggests that you imagine yourself in an original position behind a veil of ignorance. Behind this veil, you know nothing of yourself and your natural abilities, or your position in society. Behind such a veil of ignorance all individuals are simply specified as rational, free, and morally equal beings.
Then move on to explaining the two principles that Rawls says we would choose behind the veil of ignorance. By being ignorant of our circumstances, we can more objectively consider how societies should operate. Two primary principles supplement Rawls’ veil of ignorance: the liberty principle and the difference principle.
Conclusion:
Conclude by giving your opinion as to whether it is an ethically consistent theory.
