On The Idea Of Rawlsian Reflective Equilibrium

The idea of Rawlsian reflective equilibrium plays an important role in his theory, especially in his theory justification. It is not only a method by which Rawls justifies his principles of justice, but also the ground of his contractarian argument. Furthermore, we can understand the difference between his early and late theory by explaining the different connotations in reflective equilibrium.The thesis firstly discusses the definition of Rawlsian reflective equilibrium and the difference between the narrow and the wide , and points out the different presuppositions in Rawls' early and late theory, that is on the one hand he appeals a strong moral sentiments in his early theory, on the other hand he defines his conception as an political doctrine. It secondly illuminates the characters of Rawls' reflective equilibrium by analyzing the contrast between Rawls ' theory and intuitionism. Finally, it discusses the relationship between reflective equilibrium and contractarian argument, public justification, and account for the role of reflective equilibrium in Rawls' theory justification.