Free and Equal

"Imagine: You are designing a society, but you don't know who you'll be within it—rich or poor, man or woman, gay or straight. What would you want that society to look like?"

This academically challenging read by Daniel Chandler applies the 20^th Century political philosophy of John Rawles to our current state of affairs. The first half explains the essential components of the Rawles liberal philosophy, not to be confused with a neo-liberal nor socialism. You will be introduced to the difference principal, equality of opportunity, the just savings principal, shared prosperity, and more. In the second part Chandler tackles issues such as free elections, progressive taxes, universal basic income, public schools, civics, climate change, fake news, money in politics, personal property, and a fair economy each with liberal solutions. 

The aftermath addresses current world trends and the ongoing struggle between popularist autocrats and pluralist democratic leaders. "A Rawlsian politics, then, would be principled, pragmatic, pluralist, unifying and hopeful." To achieve this, progressives "must also adopt a policy program that would tackle inequality and create a truly inclusive society."

When you are finished with the book, ask yourself if you are a true liberal.