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  • Essay / John Rawls Justice As Fairness - 1533

    On matters of justice and law, he asserts that people have the right to defend themselves, but not to wage war. Furthermore, the police, government and armed forces must be built by the people if they deem it necessary (42-43). I believe other institutions, such as education, would also benefit from more participants in their creation to reflect the diversity of society. Rawls also mentions another type of society – a hierarchical society – in which basic human rights are recognized as credible by those in power and where it achieves its legitimate goals through diplomacy, trade and peace (50-51/ 59). It is not liberal, equal and free, but rather produces responsible members of society who play a role in social life (53). This society creates a representative body to speak on behalf of the people; freedom of expression is not present as in liberal societies (53). This hierarchical society deprives individuals of their right to freedom and choice, but provides them with a hands-off structure. The only legitimate right to wage war – in both societies (liberal and hierarchical) – is to protect the society of well-ordered people (61). Although I am used to a structured society, I would like to experience a society in which I can exercise all my human rights and