Final answer:
Rawls argues that two major principles should govern society: the liberty principle and the difference principle. These principles aim to ensure equal rights and opportunities for all individuals, while also addressing social and economic inequalities. Rawls's theory aligns with egalitarian theories that prioritize equality and the moral worth of every individual.
Step-by-step explanation:
Rawls argues that two major principles should govern society. First, the "liberty principle" states that each person has an equal right to the same basic, adequate liberties. Second, the "difference principle" states that any social and economic inequalities must satisfy two conditions: (1) they must be attached to offices and positions open to all under conditions of "fair equality of opportunity," and (2) they must be to the greatest benefit of the least advantaged members of society.
Rawls's theory of justice has much in common with egalitarian theories which assert that all individuals should enjoy equal status and moral worth. Egalitarian theories do not argue that all individuals should be treated exactly the same, but they insist that individuals are all deserving of rights, including civil, social, and political rights.
Rawls's goal is to create a society that seeks to address inherent structural inequalities as well as possible and ensure a fair and equitable distribution of social and economic resources.