Freedom and equality in John Rawls' Theory of Justice: A reflection on them in light of the Encyclical Fratelli Tutti
Freedom and equality in John Rawls' Theory of Justice: A reflection on them in light of the Encyclical Fratelli Tutti
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.54855/csl.26613Keywords:
John Rawls, theory of justice, freedom and equality, veil of ignorance, Fratelli TuttiAbstract
This article analyzes the relationship between freedom and equality in John Rawls’s theory of justice and places it in dialogue with the moral-social vision of Fratelli Tutti. It applies philosophical-political textual analysis and normative comparison, focusing on the original position, the veil of ignorance, equal basic liberties, fair equality of opportunity, and the difference principle. The study finds that Rawls gives lexical priority to fundamental liberties and allows socio-economic inequalities only when they improve the ondition of the least advantaged. In conversation with Fratelli Tutti, justice is broadened from institutional distribution to interpersonal responsibility, fraternity, and solidarity. A sustainable account of social justice should integrate institutional fairness with ethical commitment, so that liberty and equality are realized within a shared horizon of universal human dignity and the common good. This integration strengthens justice in pluralistic societies and guides policy toward inclusion and moral accountability.
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