Thursday, October 1, 2009

Utitlitarianism and Contract theory

I agree with the Utilitarian view of justice in some ways and in Contractual theory’s view. I think that justice should be distributed equally as long as the distribution is moral and increases the total happiness of society. I do see the problems though. I agree with the “we grow the pie and someone else cuts it” problem. While this theory is looking out for the good of the whole society, even the poor, there may be some problems with lack of motivation for certain groups of people to work harder.
Contract theory is the moral system of distribution that rational individuals would agree to when they are asked to stand behind the veil of ignorance. It is an anti-utilitarian view because distribution is not equal to all members of a society. It is set up so that even though benefits are not distributed fairly, it does not take into account of race, age, gender or other physical elements when distributing benefits. Under Contract theory, even the least advantageous person receives some benefits.
Contract theory is justifiable for science and technology policies while not actually changing any policies. Contract theory, however, does not take into the account of time. Some third world countries that do not have technology, will need more than just the distribution of laptops, they will need the teachers there to teach the communities how to use the technology. Without the considering time and other policies, it continues to widen the gap between those with technology and those without.

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