PhD Doctor of Philosophy Political Philosophy and Social Justice

Question 1

John Rawls' 'veil of ignorance' is a device used in his theory to ensure that principles of justice are chosen:

Accepted Answer

Without knowledge of one's place in society

Answer

By elected representatives

Answer

Based on utilitarian calculations

Answer

Through divine command

Question 2

Rawls' difference principle states that social and economic inequalities are just only if they benefit:

Accepted Answer

The least advantaged members of society

Answer

The greatest number overall

Answer

Those who contribute most

Answer

Those who choose them freely

Question 3

Robert Nozick's entitlement theory holds that a distribution is just if it arises from:

Accepted Answer

Just acquisition and voluntary transfer

Answer

Maximizing overall welfare

Answer

Equal shares for all

Answer

Democratic deliberation

Question 4

The social contract tradition, represented by Locke, Hobbes, and Rousseau, grounds political authority in:

Accepted Answer

Actual or hypothetical consent of the governed

Answer

Natural hierarchy

Answer

Divine right

Answer

Historical tradition

Question 5

Communitarianism, associated with Michael Sandel and Alasdair MacIntyre, criticizes liberal individualism for failing to account for the role of:

Accepted Answer

Community and tradition in shaping identity

Answer

Individual rights

Answer

Market mechanisms

Answer

Universal reason

Question 6

Hannah Arendt's concept of the 'banality of evil,' developed from her reporting on Eichmann's trial, refers to:

Accepted Answer

Evil arising from thoughtless compliance rather than malice

Answer

The inevitable spread of totalitarianism

Answer

State-sanctioned genocide

Answer

Revolutionary violence