Ethics and Social Justice with Reference to Rawls

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The impact of Rawls theories on ethical and social justice continue to reverberate into modern philosophy. However, the theoretical dimensions have recently given way to practical ideological applications, in areas as hard core as business and organizational behaviour and compensation (Mason and Helfenbein, 2012, pp. 217). Although the theoretical models of education, medicine and nursing are good examples of application of this philosophy, the true implications and outcomes can only be justified quantifiably (Elsenbeiss, 2012). In any case, the Rawls model of ethical and social justice highlights the importance of a nonaggressive attitude towards others, be it individuals, societies, corporations or even nations (Mason and Helfenbein, 2012, pp. 213). When viewed under the context of the aftermath of World War II, Rawls concepts make genuine sense to create social systems that provide equal opportunities to people and create a uniform ecological model, akin to nature itself and human nature in essence (Mason and Helfenbein, 2012, pp. 217). Based on these concepts it is only fair to assume that the future challenges in creating social and ethical equity and harmony reside in the leadership of the people who take on responsibilities of various multicultural systems (Elsenbeiss, 2012). Ethical leadership is a concept that evolved almost around the same time as the emergence of Rawls social and ethical justice. Both these concepts emerged as a direct result of retaliation against the unethical practices of World War II. Therefore, ethical leadership when perceived from Rawls thinking encompass areas of humane orientation in social systems, creation of justice and creating accountability around it, creating a sense of responsibility among citizens within themselves instead of

dictating them the terms and finally, creation of systems that are fair (Elsenbeiss, 2012). Most philosophers agree that Rawls theories have led to its evolution in the form of new models on ethical justice and social care (Marens, 2007). For example, Locke, Donaldson and Dunfee, all have evolved this key concept to argue that the governments realize the implications of equality on the society, particularly the vulnerable and minority segments. Rawls approached this concern from the economic perspective as well, given the rapidly changing state of affairs and industrial age boom post World War II (Marens, 2007). Its application perhaps has been most effectively applied in the business world, where the economic impact gives the most vivid quantifiable cause and effect outcomes, as mentioned above. It is important to understand that although the business world applies the concepts diligently and efficiently, the Rawls concepts stand to benefit the most the various philanthropic institutes such as medicine, healthcare, social systems and education. Provision of equal opportunities to all whether patients, healthcare providers and medical students are the key reflections of the societys advancement and openness to the concept of fairness. It is therefore, not surprising to see the very strong presence of Rawls concepts in these areas, which evolve with the evolution of the society. In conclusion, Rawls concepts of social equality and justice remain the key factors on which other sociological, health, educational and business models are based on. In other words, Rawls concerns with the society and various systems within the society. Proper impact of these ideologies can only come from live application of these concepts.

REFERENCES Elsenbeiss S A, 2012. Re-thinking Ethical Leadership: An Interdisciplinary Integrative Approach. The Leadership Quarterly. Vol. 23, Issue 5, October 2012, pp. 791-808. Marrens R, 2007. Returning to Rawls: Social Contracting, Social Justice, and Transcending the Limitations of Locke. Journal of Business Ethics 75(1): 63-76. Mason TC and Helfenbein R J, 2012. Ethics and International Curriculum Work: The Challenges of Culture and Context.IAP 2012.