Maximin Rule

Definition

The maximin rule is a decision-making principle in John Rawls' theory of justice, which states that social and economic inequalities should be arranged to benefit the least advantaged members of society. It aims to maximize the well-being of the worst-off individuals in a given situation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The maximin rule is a key component of Rawls' theory of justice, which aims to create a fair and just society.
2. It requires that social and economic inequalities be arranged to maximize the well-being of the least advantaged individuals in society.
3. Rawls argues that the maximin rule would be chosen by rational individuals in the original position behind the veil of ignorance.
4. The maximin rule is closely linked to Rawls' difference principle, which states that inequalities are only justified if they benefit the least advantaged.
5. The maximin rule is intended to ensure that the basic needs of the least advantaged are met, even if it means sacrificing some potential gains for the more advantaged.

Review Questions

• Explain how the maximin rule is connected to Rawls' theory of justice and the original position.
  • The maximin rule is a key component of John Rawls' theory of justice, which is based on the idea of the original position and the veil of ignorance. In the original position, individuals choose principles of justice without knowing their future place in society. The maximin rule states that social and economic inequalities should be arranged to benefit the least advantaged members of society. Rawls argues that rational individuals in the original position would choose the maximin rule as it ensures a fair and just distribution of resources, even if it means sacrificing potential gains for the more advantaged.
• Describe the relationship between the maximin rule and Rawls' difference principle.
  • The maximin rule is closely linked to Rawls' difference principle, which states that social and economic inequalities are only justified if they benefit the least advantaged members of society. The maximin rule takes this a step further by requiring that inequalities be arranged to maximize the well-being of the worst-off individuals. Both the maximin rule and the difference principle are designed to ensure that the basic needs of the least advantaged are met, even if it means limiting the potential gains of the more advantaged. The maximin rule can be seen as a practical application of the difference principle, as it provides a decision-making framework for how to structure a just society.
• Analyze how the implementation of the maximin rule could impact the distribution of resources and opportunities in a society.
  • If the maximin rule were implemented in a society, it would significantly impact the distribution of resources and opportunities. Rather than focusing on maximizing the overall wealth or well-being of the population, the maximin rule would require that social and economic inequalities be arranged to benefit the least advantaged members of society. This could lead to a more equitable distribution of resources, such as healthcare, education, and housing, ensuring that the basic needs of the worst-off individuals are met. However, it may also limit the potential for economic growth and innovation, as the focus would be on raising the floor rather than the ceiling. Ultimately, the maximin rule reflects a value judgment that the well-being of the least advantaged should be the primary concern in the design of a just society, even if it comes at the expense of potential gains for the more advantaged.

Related terms

Veil of Ignorance: A thought experiment in Rawls' theory where individuals make decisions about the structure of society without knowing their future place within it, in order to ensure fairness.

Original Position: The hypothetical starting point in Rawls' theory where individuals choose principles of justice from behind the veil of ignorance, without knowledge of their social status or natural abilities.

Difference Principle: The principle in Rawls' theory that social and economic inequalities are only justified if they benefit the least advantaged members of society.