Sandel argues that there are three main theories of justice:
- Utilitarianism, which emphasizes the greatest good for the greatest number,
- Libertarianism, which emphasizes individual rights and freedoms,
- Egalitarianism, which emphasizes equality and fairness.
Throughout the book, Sandel uses a range of examples and case studies to illustrate the complexities of applying these theories in practice and to challenge readers to consider their own moral intuitions. Sandel ultimately argues that justice is not just a matter of applying abstract principles, but requires a deeper understanding of the moral and ethical considerations at stake in any given situation.
The book encourages readers to engage in thoughtful and reflective dialogue about the meaning of justice and to consider how their own views and actions contribute to a just society.
Chapter 1: “Doing the Right Thing”
The author introduces the concept of justice and poses fundamental questions such as “What is the right thing to do?” and “How should we live together?” He discusses the importance of moral and ethical reasoning in addressing these questions and explores the idea that justice involves not just abstract principles, but also the consideration of specific circumstances and contexts.
Chapter 2: “The Greatest Happiness Principle”
The author delves into utilitarianism, a prominent theory of justice that emphasizes maximizing overall happiness or well-being. He discusses the strengths and weaknesses of utilitarianism, including concerns about how it values individual rights, minority interests, and the potential for sacrificing the few for the benefit of the many.
Chapter 3: “A Categorical Imperative”
The author introduces deontological ethics, particularly the ideas of Immanuel Kant, which emphasize moral duties and obligations. He discusses the concept of the categorical imperative, which requires individuals to act based on universal principles that could be consistently applied by all, and raises questions about how to reconcile conflicting duties and determine what is truly universal.
Chapter 4: “Hired Help”
The author examines the morality of market-based transactions, using the example of paying someone to stand in line on your behalf as a thought-provoking case study. He discusses the implications of commodifying certain goods and services, the impact on human dignity, and the potential for inequality and exploitation in market-driven societies.
Chapter 5: “What Matters Is the Motive”
Sandel delves into the ethics of intentions and motives, exploring the ideas of philosophers such as John Stuart Mill and Friedrich Nietzsche. He discusses the complexities of determining moral worth based on intentions and motives, and how they influence our judgments of right and wrong in various contexts.
Chapter 6: “A Matter of Interpretation”
The author explores the role of moral reasoning and interpretation in the context of law and legal justice. He discusses different approaches to interpreting laws and constitutional rights, including originalism and living constitutionalism, and raises questions about how personal values and interpretations shape legal decisions and impact societal justice.
Chapter 7: “The Case for Equality”
The author delves into egalitarianism, a theory of justice that emphasizes equality and fairness. He discusses different forms of egalitarianism, including the distribution of wealth and opportunities, and raises questions about the trade-offs between equality and other moral considerations, such as liberty and efficiency.
Chapter 8: “What Do We Owe One Another?”
Sandel discusses the role of obligations and responsibilities in justice, including the concept of civic virtue and the idea of a common good. He examines the tension between individual rights and communal obligations, and how societal structures and institutions impact our moral duties towards one another.
Chapter 9: “Arguing Affirmative Action”
Sandel uses the example of affirmative action to explore the complexities of justice in the context of diversity and discrimination. He discusses different arguments for and against affirmative action, including issues of fairness, meritocracy, and reparative justice, and encourages readers to engage in constructive dialogue and deliberation on these contentious issues.
Chapter 10: “Who Deserves What?”
Sandel examines the concept of desert, or what individuals deserve based on their actions or characteristics. He discusses different theories of desert, including merit-based, need-based, and contribution-based approaches, and raises questions about the subjective nature of desert and its implications for justice.