Final answer:
John Rawls' original position theory ensures justice as fairness by encouraging impartial decision-making behind a veil of ignorance, focusing on maximizing the welfare of the least advantaged in society.
Step-by-step explanation:
Why the "Original Position" Ensures "Justice as Fairness"
The concept of the "original position" is central to John Rawls' theory of justice, which is designed to ensure "justice as fairness." This idea starts with the recognition that society is a system of cooperation where individuals have different life prospects based on their circumstances. Rawls proposed that to design a just society, we should imagine ourselves in the original position behind a "veil of ignorance." Here, we would not know our place in society, our class, race, or gender. This thought experiment is designed to remove personal biases and encourage decisions that would be fair and beneficial to all, especially the least advantaged. In this way, Rawls' framework aims to create a society where institutions are organized to benefit everyone, particularly those who are worst off.
Rawls' veil of ignorance promotes impartiality, which is essential for justice. It aligns with the maxi-min principle, which holds that just institutions should maximize the welfare of the least fortunate. Furthermore, policies should be evaluated for their fairness, especially in ensuring that no discrimination exists, as one would not choose unfair practices if one could potentially be affected by them.
While some criticize Rawls' focus on the relative position of the least well-off, his argument is for a society where inequalities are acceptable only if they also improve the situation of the least advantaged. This is a departure from strict equality but aims to ensure that everyone's basic liberties and opportunities are maximized, constituting a fairer society.