The philosopher John Rawls proposed a thought experiment called the "veil of ignorance": imagine designing the basic principles of a just society without knowing in advance what position you would occupy in it — your wealth, talents, race, or social class. Rawls argued that principles chosen behind such a veil would be more likely to protect the least advantaged, since rational designers would hedge against the possibility of finding themselves in that position.
Which conclusion most logically follows from the passage?
- Acheck_circle
Rawls views certain forms of self-interest as compatible with, rather than opposed to, the protection of the disadvantaged
- B
Knowledge of one's actual position in society guarantees just decision-making
- C
Rational designers would invariably select principles that benefit only the wealthiest
- D
Rawls believed individuals should never consider their own interests when designing institutions
Explanation
Rational hedging behind the veil channels self-interest toward protecting the worst-off, supporting B. A contradicts Rawls; C misreads the role of self-interest; D contradicts the argument.