Final answer:
John Rawls' Contract Theory, as presented in 'A Theory of Justice,' advocates for a society based on fairness and does not specifically lean toward socialism, despite emphasizing social welfare and egalitarian principles. Therefore, the statement in question is not representative of Rawls' political philosophy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question pertains to whether John Rawls' version of Contract Theory leans toward socialism, according to James Friesen. It's important to understand that Rawls' theory, presented in his book A Theory of Justice, promotes the idea of justice as fairness and does not advocate for a socialist system. Instead, Rawls begins with the concept that society is a cooperative venture for mutual advantage. His conception of justice invokes the use of a 'veil of ignorance' whereby individuals design a society without knowledge of their own place within it. This theoretical exercise aims to ensure that the institutions they design are fair and just for all, without giving undue advantage to any particular group.
Rawls's theory has been influential in political philosophy, particularly concerning the principles for a just society. Even though it emphasizes social welfare and egalitarian principles, labeling it as leaning toward socialism can be misleading and does not accurately represent the broad principles Rawls espouses. Therefore, the statement that Rawls' theory leans toward socialism would not align well with Rawls' philosophy as delineated in his work.