The Philosophical Shift from Utilitarianism to Justice

The episode discusses the philosophical shift that occurred with the publication of Robert Nozick's 'Anarchy, State, and Utopia,' which critiqued the utilitarian framework that had dominated political thought. Following John Rawls' 'A Theory of Justice,' Nozick's work proposed a rights-based perspective contrary to utilitarian ideals, which prioritize the greatest happiness for the greatest number. The conversation highlights the contrasting perceptions of Rawls and Nozick, where Rawls is often seen as the champion of justice and Nozick as a dissenting voice against that emerging consensus. This philosophical transition marked the beginning of new debates surrounding rights and justice in social theory.