SUS1501
Assignment 4 Semester 1 2026
Unique number:
Due Date: 2 April 2026
Detailed solutions, explanations, workings
and references.
+27 81 278 3372
, STEP 1: ANSWER THE QUESTION "IS THIS OK?" - COUNTS 60% OF MARKS
Is this ok?
1. Analysis of the inequality using all of John Rawls’ principles in the correct
order
To answer whether this situation is morally acceptable, I will apply John
Rawls’ principles of justice in the correct order. Rawls argues that a just
society must first protect equal basic liberties, then ensure fair equality of
opportunity, and only then allow inequalities if they satisfy the difference
principle.
First principle: Equal basic liberties
Rawls’ first principle states that every person must have an equal right to the most
extensive basic liberties compatible with similar liberties for others. These basic
liberties include freedom of thought, freedom of association, political participation,
and protection under the law. In the South African context, these liberties formally
exist under the Constitution. On paper, both Patrice Motsepe and poor South
Africans possess the same legal rights.
However, when one looks at the reality of poverty, it becomes clear that basic
liberties are not always equally meaningful in practice. A person who is hungry,
Varsity Cube 2026 +27 81 278 3372
Assignment 4 Semester 1 2026
Unique number:
Due Date: 2 April 2026
Detailed solutions, explanations, workings
and references.
+27 81 278 3372
, STEP 1: ANSWER THE QUESTION "IS THIS OK?" - COUNTS 60% OF MARKS
Is this ok?
1. Analysis of the inequality using all of John Rawls’ principles in the correct
order
To answer whether this situation is morally acceptable, I will apply John
Rawls’ principles of justice in the correct order. Rawls argues that a just
society must first protect equal basic liberties, then ensure fair equality of
opportunity, and only then allow inequalities if they satisfy the difference
principle.
First principle: Equal basic liberties
Rawls’ first principle states that every person must have an equal right to the most
extensive basic liberties compatible with similar liberties for others. These basic
liberties include freedom of thought, freedom of association, political participation,
and protection under the law. In the South African context, these liberties formally
exist under the Constitution. On paper, both Patrice Motsepe and poor South
Africans possess the same legal rights.
However, when one looks at the reality of poverty, it becomes clear that basic
liberties are not always equally meaningful in practice. A person who is hungry,
Varsity Cube 2026 +27 81 278 3372
