Question

Suppose there are two main groups of individuals in a society. Suppose there are 20 total 'goods' or items that can be owned in this society. (The two groups might consist of one individual each or many individuals—it does not matter to the question to be answered.) Which of the following distributions of the 20 goods in this society might be justified, given Nozick's entitlement theory of justice? (Don't assume any other conditions—just the ones stated above.)

A) 10 goods to Group A, 10 goods to Group B
B) 18 goods to Group A, 2 goods to Group B
C) 15 goods to Group A, 5 goods to Group B
D) 20 goods to Group A, 5 goods to Group B.

Answer 1

The distribution justified by Nozick's entitlement theory of justice would be option D) 20 goods to Group A and 5 goods to Group B. The correct option is D.

Step-by-step explanation:

Nozick's entitlement theory of justice is based on the idea that a distribution is just if everyone is entitled to the holdings they possess under the distribution.

According to Nozick, individuals are entitled to their property as long as it is acquired through voluntary means and without violating the rights of others.

Therefore, the distribution that would be justified under Nozick's theory is option D) 20 goods to Group A and 5 goods to Group B.

In this distribution, Group A would possess all 20 goods because they acquired them through voluntary means without violating the rights of others.

Group B would possess 5 goods, indicating that they have acquired some goods through voluntary means as well but are less well-off than Group A. The correct option is D.