A Calvinistic critique of John Rawls's A Theory of Justice

The major question of this thesis is: Can man beginning with himself self-consciously construct a just political philosophy. In order to answer this question this thesis examines closely John Rawls's influential political theory as set forth in his book, A Theory of Justice. In this work Rawls lays out a theory or political philosophy which is build completely upon autonomous man. As a result, Rawls's theory is germane to the task or answering the major question or this thesis. It is important to note that the examination of Rawls's theory throughout this thesis is strictly from the perspective of Calvinism. The thesis is divided into four main chapters. The first chapter provides the reader with a general overview of Rawl's theory. The second chapter lays out the basic presuppositions of Rawls and compares them directly with the Calvinist presuppositions of Cornelius Van Til. The third and fourth chapters examine Rawls's two principles of justice as they emerge from his basic presuppositions. They are both examined in light of the Calvinist presuppositions of Van Til. The thesis makes three basic conclusions as a result of examining Rawls's theory. First, man acting as the final reference-point fails to produce a foundation upon which to build just political philosophy. Secondly, man acting as the final reference-point fails in his ability to both generate and sustain any basic liberties. Thirdly, man acting as the final reference-point fails in his attempt to allocate economic resources in a manner in which the dignity and freedom of the individual is maintained within the parameters of a just and productive economy. The final conclusion of the thesis is that man cannot construct a just political philosophy by beginning with himself. Rather, it is consistent Calvinism which begins with the sovereignty of the Triune God over all of the cosmos, which submits to His Word revelation and to His interpretation of reality that alone provides the foundation upon which a just political philosophy can be built.