Social work behind the veil of ignorance Cover Image

Praca socjalna za zasłoną niewiedzy
Social work behind the veil of ignorance

Author(s): Paweł Kozacki
Subject(s): Social Sciences, Sociology, Family and social welfare
Published by: Wydawnictwo Uniwersytetu Jagiellońskiego
Keywords: zasłona niewiedzy; godność; teoria sprawiedliwości

Summary/Abstract: The purpose of this article “Social work behind the veil of ignorance” is to identify the importance of veil of ignorance in social work. John Rawls’ theory of justice is connected with a specific concept of the self. The article focuses on the role of “naked self” in support process. Even if a client looses his/her social and financial status, he/she has a dignity which is beyond the veil of ignorance. It is easy to imagine the initial situation where people know nothing about their welfare or personal features. The social position of each human being is totally arbitrary and it cannot be a basis for principles of justice. The veil of ignorance provides arguments for brotherhood as a fundamental idea in society. In this context, social workers can explain redistribution in Rawls’ terms, because theory of justice is a well-structured foundation for an advocacy of those who are the least advantaged.

  • Issue Year: 20/2015
  • Issue No: 1
  • Page Range: 1-10
  • Page Count: 10
  • Language: Polish