Rawls' Paradox
Abstract
Rawls’ theory of justice is paradoxical, for it requires a society to aim
directly to maximize the basic goods received by the least advantaged even if
directly aiming is self-defeating. Rawls’ reasons for rejecting capitalist systems
commit him to holding that a society must not merely maximize the goods received
by the least advantaged, but must do so via specific institutions. By Rawls’ own
premises, in the long run directly aiming to satisfy the difference principle is
contrary to the interests of the poor, though it is meant to aid them.