Single Idea 20535

[catalogued under 24. Political Theory / A. Basis of a State / 4. Original Position / a. Original position]

Full Idea

Wouldn't it be more rational to choose principles that would maximize the average position, perhaps subject to some 'floor' level beneath which they would not want to take the risk of sinking?

Gist of Idea

Isn't it more rational to maximise the average position, but with a safety net?

Source

Adam Swift (Political Philosophy (3rd ed) [2014], 1 'Rawls')

Book Reference

Swift,Adam: 'Political Philosophy (3rd edn)' [Polity 2014], p.26


A Reaction

The criticism is that Rawls's prediction is over-cautious, and that people will take mild risks in what they choose, as long as there is no danger of disaster. (Just as you should allow small children to risk injury, but not death).