The World's Best Book Summaries
What does John Rawls say about basic rights and liberties? Under what circumstances does Rawls’s theory allow for the restriction of individuals’ basic rights and liberties? According to John Rawls’s theory of justice, everyone in society is entitled to basic equal rights, liberties, and duties. However, Rawls acknowledges that conflicts between different rights and liberties can arise. Here’s what Rawls says on rights and liberties.
What is John Rawls’s philosophy of justice? What does a just society look like in Rawls’s eyes? Does Rawls prescribe any universal rules of justice? Rawls argues that a just society would have duties that fit its specific circumstances. However, he does emphasize three duties that must be followed to promote the common good while still allowing citizens to pursue their own self-interest. Let’s explore each and examine how they accomplish this goal.
What is John Rawls’s theory of justice as fairness? What would citizenship under the justice as fairness paradigm look like in the real world? Justice as fairness is the theory of justice resulting from the original position: a hypothetical scenario where a group of equals envisions a just society by means of unbiased, rational debate. Rawls argues that a fairly just society should allow people to live however they like, albeit with a few exceptions. Here are three areas where Rawls believes society should enforce certain duties and values.
Are there hidden messages in the way news is reported? What myths does Hollywood perpetuate? Many of Roland Barthes’s essays provide concrete examples of how myths are used to reinforce cultural norms and values. Particularly, these essays seek to unmask class, gender, race, beauty, and political constructs. Read more to see how Roland Barthes’s essays shed light on cultural myths.
What is the new space race? Who is the race between? What does the future hold for space exploration? Space exploration largely faded into the background after the end of the Cold War, but it’s coming back with a vengeance. Participants in the new space race are vying for the advantages of establishing a space presence that could set them up for future success. Read on to learn more about what’s happening with the new space race and who’s involved.
Why do politicians lie? Why do we continue to support politicians, even when we know they’re lying? Research shows that Americans will continue to support their preferred political candidates even when they know those candidates lie. Since 2016, the term “post-truth politics” has come into regular use for just this reason. Read on to learn why politicians lie and why Americans tolerate it.
What are noncompete clauses in contracts? Why has the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) proposed a ban on noncompete clauses? The FTC recently proposed banning noncompete clauses, which restrict former employees and contractors from launching or working with rival companies. The clauses aim to protect businesses’ sensitive information. Keep reading to learn why the FTC wants to ban noncompete clauses in contracts and if they’ll succeed.
What does permitless carry mean? How many states allow permitless carry? What should you know about open and concealed carry laws? In the last decade, the number of permitless carry states—those that allow people to carry concealed weapons without a license—has jumped from two to 25. However, the change isn’t as drastic as it sounds. Read on for an overview of permitless carry in the United States, including what’s changing for gun owners.
Can the government regulate cryptocurrency? What challenges do regulators face? The cryptocurrency industry has been marked by volatility, bankruptcies, and scandals, and after the recent implosion of crypto exchange FTX, many are calling for long-overdue regulation. However, regulators are struggling to write laws as no one can agree on the fundamentals of the industry. Keep reading to learn if the government can regulate cryptocurrency and why it’s a challenge.
How can creating new jobs cause problems in society? Why does job creation sometimes result in useless jobs? According to anthropology professor David Graeber, useless jobs have become widespread in most modern societies. He claims that creating new jobs, while beneficial when done responsibly, can also cause the proliferation of useless jobs for economic and political reasons. Keep reading to learn how creating new jobs can also produce meaningless jobs, according to Graeber.