John Rawls
The 20th-century philosopher who argued for social justice through the 'veil of ignorance' thought experiment, providing the intellectual foundation for the modern welfare state within a liberal framework.
Real World
Rawls's difference principle influenced the design of tax credit systems in the UK and USA — policies deliberately tilted to benefit the least well-off, which Rawls argued rational people would choose behind the veil of ignorance.
Exam Focus
Name both principles of justice (equal basic liberties; difference principle) when discussing Rawls — stating only one loses marks on 'explain' questions.
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