The Free-rider problem in society: A philosophical issue based on Rawl's Theory of Justice

Solving the Free-rider Mentality

The original intentions of socialism are towards the fair and equitable distribution of a nation 's wealth . The ideals of socialism rose from the social and economic inequalities that free marker and democratic economies foster . Socialism is an ideal , a utopia if you will , but a concept that is difficult to put into effect in the actual world . While on , socialism seems very workable , it can very much fall victim to the realities and circumstances of our complex and all too often contradictory world

Socialism and the

concept of social justice and equality succumbed in the hands of tyrants who used Marx 's ideals to impose their own vested interests . Understanding the context with which socialism developed , it is easy to see that its principles and ideals are inherently founded on social justice and human rights , and are therefore very democratic . The conflict lies in the idea that socialism puts limits in potential abuses , and by extension , limits the growth of an individual and his right to self-determination . However , of what does a society stand to gain if all it develops is rampant consumerism and materialism , where there is a great imbalance between the quality of life of the rich and the poor ? What does freedom mean in the face of unrelenting poverty While democracy may provide greater freedoms , the people are chained by their economic capabilities . The sad truth is that in our search for freedom and self-determination , we have forgotten our collective responsibility...