Concerning Justice

A series of lectures examines competing definitions and theories of justice and the nature and source of rights. It treats justice as an equilibrium between individual liberty and the safety of society, arguing for liberty of action so long as it does not injure others. The author analyzes how group interests and conflicting claims complicate the fair allocation of restraints and privileges. He contends that justice requires governmental action, considers which governmental forms best promote it, and insists on constitutional limits and bills of rights. The interpretation and enforcement of those limits fall to an independent, impartial judiciary, whose undiminished powers are essential to preserve just order.