Final answer:
Discrimination is considered unjust when based on irrelevant characteristics that do not serve a legitimate government interest. The rational basis test allows certain discriminations if justifiably reasonable, while others, especially based on historical prejudices, are more strictly scrutinized. Labor market discrimination based on race or gender, despite equal qualifications, is an example of unjust discrimination.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the concept of justice, discrimination is considered unjust when it is based on irrelevant characteristics. This means that when laws or policies treat individuals unequally without a legitimate reason that is rationally related to a legitimate government interest, it is considered discrimination. For example, excluding someone from a job because of their race or gender, rather than their qualifications, is discriminatory. However, when discrimination is based on relevant characteristics, such as not allowing a blind person to drive for safety reasons, it is not considered unjust according to the law. This is under the rational basis test, where the courts will generally deem a discriminatory act acceptable as long as there is a reasonable justification that serves a legitimate government interest.
Conversely, the courts are much more stringent against discrimination based on race, ethnicity, gender, religion, or national origin due to historical prejudices. In labour markets, discrimination can occur when workers with the same skill levels, education, and expertise receive different pay or job opportunities based on characteristics like race or gender. Progress is being made to reduce such disparities through effective policies and the continuous efforts of economists and statisticians.