The Cambridge Companion to Rawls (Cambridge Companions to Philosophy)

Rawls theory of justice is a complex work with so many interrelated concepts that not only beginners but even the more experienced need help of other thinkers to better appreciate his work. This collection of essays fulfills this need. The contributors have explained in detail the concepts like 'Original Position', reflective equilibrium, and the difference principle which are the main pillars of Rawls work and also explored the relationship of his work to other areas of political philosophy and social justice. Certain underlying assumptions and thoughts not overtly found in Rawls literature have also been brought to focus. Essayists have also extended Rawls views to concerns like feminism not expressly treated by him. The essays are mainly sympathetic to Rawls point of view and also explain how some other lines of thought like communitarianism can be accommodated within Rawlsian framework. I think that value of the book could have been enhanced by including views of Rawls' main critics like Sandel and Nozik in more detail. That would have given the reader an opportunity to consider the competing political theories better. If you have read Rawls earlier and want more clarity about his views, this book will be a great help.