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Liberty, Competition, and the Common Good: An Exploration of Economic and Social Justice

Corey Hayes

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Published in The Darwin Economy: Liberty Competition And The Common Good

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In recent years, there has been a growing debate about the relationship between economic freedom and social justice. Some argue that these two concepts are incompatible, and that pursuing one necessarily comes at the expense of the other. Others argue that economic freedom is essential for social justice, and that a free market economy is the best way to create a more just and equitable society.

The Darwin Economy: Liberty, Competition, and the Common Good

by Robert H. Frank

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	944 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
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Print length	:	265 pages

In his new book, Liberty, Competition, and the Common Good, Professor John Tomasi takes up this debate and argues that liberty and social justice are not only compatible, but are in fact complementary and essential for a flourishing society.

Liberty and Social Justice

Tomasi begins by arguing that liberty is essential for human flourishing. He writes that liberty is "the power to choose one's own path in life, to make one's own decisions, and to live one's life as one sees fit." Liberty is not simply the absence of government interference, but also the freedom to participate in the economic and social life of society.

Tomasi then argues that social justice is also essential for human flourishing. He writes that social justice is "the fair distribution of resources and opportunities, so that all members of society have the chance to live a good life." Social justice is not simply about providing for the poor, but also about creating a society in which everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

The Relationship Between Liberty and Social Justice

Tomasi argues that liberty and social justice are not only compatible, but are in fact complementary. He writes that "liberty is the foundation of social justice, and social justice is the goal of liberty." Liberty is essential for social justice because it allows individuals to make their own choices and to participate in the economic and social life of society. Social justice is essential for liberty because it creates a society in which everyone has the opportunity to flourish.

Tomasi does not argue that liberty and social justice are always easy to reconcile. He acknowledges that there can be tensions between the two concepts. However, he argues that these tensions can be overcome through compromise and dialogue. He writes that "the goal of public policy should be to find the right balance between liberty and social justice, so that both can be realized to the greatest extent possible."

Liberty, Competition, and the Common Good is a thought-provoking and important book that makes a significant contribution to the debate about the relationship between economic freedom and social justice. Tomasi argues that these two concepts are not only compatible, but are in fact complementary and essential for a flourishing society. He provides a powerful and persuasive case for a society that is both free and just.

The Darwin Economy: Liberty, Competition, and the Common Good

by Robert H. Frank

4.2 out of 5