Assignment

Does Rawls' approach provide a better social contract than Hobbes?

For this discussion board recall the last module's reading from Hobbes' Leviathan and contrast it with the position of John Rawls in the selection from the first of his seminal work in political philosophy, A Theory of Justice (1972).

First, explain Rawls' argument for the Original Position and it helps us choose the basic structure of society. Next briefly reiterate Hobbes' argument for an absolute monarchy. Finally, consider each of the readings and provide an argument for which of these positions is a better or more realistic vision of political life. Choose only one to support, not both. Make sure you consider both readings equally in your response.

Required Reading - John Rawls, A Theory of Justice (Selection)

Recommended Reading - "Original Position", Sections 1, 2, & 3.

Important: You may find some of the information in Sections 5 & 6 helpful. Please be advised that you should proceed through this material in a cautious and careful manner. The terminology is tricky and it usage is not always as apparent as it would be in everyday conversation.