Justice - Salman Khalid

Contrary to political philosophies as varied as utilitarianism, socialism/communism, those advocating the welfare state, and Rawls's, which are all constructed on the hypothesis that an inextricable nexus exists between distributive justice and equality, Justice: A Fresh Impression doubts the presumed nexus and argues that to see justice through the lens of equality is to misunderstand justice. Instead, this book presents an alternative foundation for rights--namely, that everyone is born free--not equal, but with an equal entitlement to all the resources of the planet. Justice illustrates that this revised premise, which blends the best elements of the free market model with those of socialism, extends larger space to human diversity, and also presents a steadier platform to fight poverty (through recognizing everyone's equal right to the planet's resources).
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
College courses by Ronald Dworkin and Michael Sandel, as well as lectures by John Rawls, spurred the author's interest in the subject of justice. More recently, the author has come to realize that Rawls's theory of justice might have flaws that recommend a fresh examination of that theory.
REVIEWS
"In Rawls's equation, justice means anything that benefits the least fortunate in any society. Khalid grapples with this notion and comes to some startling conclusions. ... Justice is logically arranged, with consumable chapters that pick apart some of the more problematic issues associated with the legal and philosophical conditions of "justice." ... It is a very important work about a topic that remains mysterious to many--a philosophical text designed for academics and those well versed in political philosophy, legal theory, and political science, though it will also be worthwhile to anyone who thinks seriously about society, its rules, and how it can be reshaped." - Foreword Reviews
"Khalid is rational and measured. ... He doesn't disparage his philosophical opponents but attempts to refute them through reason alone. Such sober, objective analyses are rare in our universe of overheated political discourse. ... This is a closely-argued, thoughtful work ..." - Blueink Review