Introduction
The debate on justice in modern political philosophy is incomplete without understanding the contributions of Amartya Sen and John Rawls. While Rawls’ work laid the foundation of modern theories of justice, Sen critically expanded and redefined the discussion by focusing on real-world outcomes rather than ideal systems.
This article provides a complete, exam-oriented and easy-to-understand explanation of their ideas, especially useful for UGC NET Economics, PGT, and UPSC aspirants.
Background of the Two Thinkers
John Rawls and A Theory of Justice
Published in 1971, A Theory of Justice by John Rawls is one of the most influential works in political philosophy.
Rawls introduced the concept of “Justice as Fairness”, built on two main ideas:
- Original Position
- Veil of Ignorance
These ideas aim to create a perfectly just society where individuals design rules without knowing their own social position.
Amartya Sen and The Idea of Justice
In 2009, Amartya Sen published The Idea of Justice, where he critiques and moves beyond Rawls.
Instead of asking:
“What is a perfectly just society?”
Sen asks:
“How can we reduce injustice in the real world?”
Core Difference: Rawls vs Sen
1. Approach to Justice
Rawls (Transcendental Institutionalism)
- Focuses on ideal institutions
- Seeks a perfect model of justice
- Abstract and theoretical
Sen (Comparative Realization)
- Focuses on actual outcomes
- Compares real-life situations
- Practical and action-oriented
2. Focus Area
| Rawls | Sen |
|---|---|
| Institutions | Human lives |
| Rules | Outcomes |
| Ideal justice | Real justice |
3. Methodology
- Rawls uses hypothetical reasoning (veil of ignorance)
- Sen uses comparative reasoning (which situation is more just)
The Capability Approach (Sen’s Key Contribution)
One of Sen’s most important contributions is the Capability Approach.
What does it mean?
Instead of focusing only on income or resources, Sen focuses on:
- What people are able to do
- What they are able to become
Example:
Two people may have the same income, but:
- One is healthy → more capable
- One is disabled → fewer real opportunities
👉 Therefore, equality of income ≠ equality of justice
The Famous Flute Example
Sen explains justice using a simple example:
Three children are arguing over a flute:
- One can play it
- One is poor and has no toys
- One made the flute
Each claim is reasonable but different.
👉 Sen’s point:
There is no single perfect answer, but we can still make better comparative judgments.
Criticism of Rawls by Sen
Sen appreciates Rawls but raises key criticisms:
- Too focused on ideal theory
- Ignores real-world inequalities
- Doesn’t help in practical decision-making
Why Sen’s Approach is Important Today
- Helps in policy-making
- Focuses on poverty, inequality, and development
- Widely used in:
- Human Development Index (HDI)
- Welfare economics
- Development studies
Exam Relevance (UGC NET / PGT / UPSC)
This topic is highly important and questions are often asked on:
- Rawls vs Sen comparison
- Capability approach
- Justice as fairness
- Transcendental vs comparative approach
Conclusion
Amartya Sen did not simply build upon Rawls—he challenged and reshaped the theory of justice.
- Rawls gives us a perfect blueprint
- Sen gives us a practical roadmap
👉 In simple terms:
Rawls tells us what justice should look like.
Sen tells us how to achieve more justice in reality.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is Amartya Sen’s theory based on Rawls?
No, it is a critique and extension, not a direct continuation.
Q2. What is the main idea of Sen’s theory?
Focus on reducing injustice using real-world comparisons.
Q3. What is Rawls famous for?
The concept of Justice as Fairness and Veil of Ignorance.
Final Tip for Students
For exams, remember this one line:
👉 Rawls = Ideal Justice | Sen = Practical Justice
