The Paradigm of Rawlsian Justice, and Iraqi Public Policy: A Critical Study

Abstract

Rawls's theory of justice is a comprehensive and well-structured program with a specific hierarchy. Therefore, we found it essential to clarify the theory as an integrated program that seeks to achieve institutional justice within a liberal environment, according to a distributive public policy that prioritizes need over merit. Consequently, we could not separate the foundations of the theory and discuss them abstractly; rather, we must discuss them within the framework of the program and the environment in which it was developed. This is especially important given that Rawls's objective was to create a theory of justice that offered an alternative to utilitarian thought in general. The researcher posits that misdiagnosing the problems of the Iraqi state and misunderstanding Rawlsian justice and its context could lead to its adoption as a general policy for the Iraqi state. Thus, applying the theory in Iraq would lead to zero solutions for the Iraqi state's problems. The researcher adopted a critical methodology and an institutional approach in studying and analyzing the application of Rawlsian justice theory to the Iraqi context. Rawls's theory of justice as equity is a philosophical framework that aims to focus on the principles of justice that govern the distribution of social and economic resources in a liberal society. This is one of the contemporary theories within the framework of neoliberalism. In working towards justice fairly, we must decide which interpretations should be given preference. Based on this, Rawls believes in a democratic system of equality as capable of eliminating the negative influence of random factors on achieving justice. Rawls summarizes these factors as natural factors such as heredity, social factors, and chance. The more the system can reduce the influence of these factors on individuals' lives, the closer it is to achieving justice.