Final answer:
The Industrial Revolution fundamentally changed social and economic systems, highlighting the need for social justice in the face of worker exploitation and vast inequalities. It prompted intellectuals and political philosophers to propose solutions, including social ownership of production means, to address the growing disparity and advocate for improved working conditions and rights.
Step-by-step explanation:
Impact of the Industrial Revolution on Social Justice
The Industrial Revolution marked a significant shift in economic and social structures. It spurred the need for a new understanding of social justice. Intellectuals challenged traditional concepts and sought to resolve rising social inequalities. With the rapid rise of industrialization, workers provided labor in harsh conditions for low wages, while owners and investors benefited disproportionately.
Concerns about laborers' rights, including those of children, surfaced as they worked long hours in unsafe environments.
The plight of these workers led to efforts to improve their welfare, with some industrialists, like Robert Owen, advocating for humane treatment and offering educational and social support. Nonetheless, these were exceptions rather than the norm as most business owners did not prioritize the wellbeing of their employees beyond wage payments.
Driven by these injustices, several political philosophers of the early 19th century, who eventually became known as socialists, proposed varying solutions. Their proposals often involved social ownership of production means, aiming to alleviate poverty and reduce inequality.
The Industrial Revolution paved the way for the high standard of living we have today, but it came at a cost, particularly for the working poor.