John Rawls' theory of justice, articulated in "A Theory of Justice," is often critiqued by communitarian thinkers for its focus on the concept of the "liberal self." Rawls' idea of the liberal self is centered on the notion of individuals as rational, autonomous, and primarily concerned with their self-interest. This framework is foundational to his theory, where principles of justice are derived from the original position, a hypothetical scenario in which individuals, behind a "veil of ignorance," make decisions about justice without knowledge of their own social position, wealth, or other personal attributes. This approach aims to ensure fairness and equal opportunity by emphasizing rationality and individual choice.
Communitarians, such as Michael Sandel and Alasdair MacIntyre, critique this aspect of Rawls' theory for being excessively individualistic. They argue that Rawls' emphasis on the autonomous individual overlooks the importance of community, shared values, and the social context in shaping individuals' identities and moral outlooks. From a communitarian perspective, individuals are not isolated, self-interested agents but are deeply embedded in and shaped by their communities, traditions, and relationships.
One of the key criticisms is that Rawls' theory is too abstract and detached from the realities of social life. Communitarians argue that by prioritizing the rational, self-interested individual, Rawls neglects the moral and ethical dimensions that arise from communal life. They believe that justice should not be understood solely as a set of principles chosen by individuals in a hypothetical scenario, but rather as a concept that emerges from the values, practices, and traditions of actual communities.
Moreover, communitarian critics argue that Rawls' theory inadequately addresses issues of cultural identity and group rights. In a multicultural society, where various groups have distinct cultural practices and values, a theory of justice must take into account these differences. Rawls' focus on individual rights and universal principles, according to communitarians, fails to recognize the significance of cultural and communal identities in people's lives. A more just society, they argue, would be one that acknowledges and accommodates the diverse cultural identities and values of its members.
In essence, the communitarian critique of Rawls' theory of justice challenges the primacy of the rational, autonomous individual and advocates for a more holistic approach to justice. This approach emphasizes the importance of community, shared values, and the moral and ethical dimensions of human life, arguing that a just society should be grounded in the particular traditions, practices, and identities of its members rather than in abstract principles derived from individual self-interest.