Editing Distributive justice (section)

==== Basic principles of a just distribution ====
In this original position, the main concern will be to secure the goods that are most essential for pursuing the goals of each individual, regardless of what this specific goal might be.<ref>{{Cite book|last=Rawls|first=John|url=https://archive.org/details/theoryjustice00rawl_606|title=A Theory of Justice: Revised Edition|publisher=Harvard University Press|year=1999|pages=[https://archive.org/details/theoryjustice00rawl_606/page/n4 10]–12|url-access=limited}}</ref> With this in mind, Rawls theorizes two basic [[Justice as Fairness|principles of just distribution]].

The first principle, the '''liberty principle''', is the equal access to basic rights and liberties for all. With this, each person should be able to access the most extensive set of liberties that is compatible with similar schemes of access by other citizens. Thereby, it is not only a question of positive individual access but also of negative restrictions so as to respect others’ basic rights and liberties.<ref name=":0" />

The second principle, the '''difference principle''', addresses how the arrangement of social and economic inequalities, and thus the just distribution should look. Firstly, Rawls argues that such distribution should be based on a reasonable expectation of advantage for all, but also to the greatest benefit of the least advantaged in society. Secondly, the offices and positions attached to this arrangement should be open to all.<ref name=":0" />

These principles of justice are then prioritised according to two additional principles:<ref name=":0" />

{{Ordered list|the principles of the priority of liberty, wherein basic liberties only can be restricted if this is done for the sake of protecting liberty either:
{{ordered list|type=lower-alpha|1=by strengthening “the total system of liberties shared by all;” or|2=if a less than equal liberty is acceptable to those who are subject to this same lesser liberty.}}|inequality of opportunity, and the priority of efficiency & welfare, can only be acceptable if:
{{ordered list|type=lower-alpha|1=it enhances “the opportunities of those with lesser opportunities” in society; and/or|2=excessive saving either balances out or lessens the gravity of hardship for those who do not traditionally benefit.}}}}