State perfectionism: A critical analysis of John Rawls based on John Finnis' new natural law theory
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.21527/2317-5389.2023.21.12777Abstract
The purpose of this article is to present the state perfectionism defended by the neoclassical tradition of natural law – especially from the analytical philosopher of law John Finnis. Such political theory argued that the State can and should intervene in the lives of its citizens in favor of a perspective of good life or human flourishing. However, as a central issue, it is questioned that, in a plural and democratic society, there is supposedly the indispensability of a neutral state action, which does not benefit individuals based on controversial and contradictory views of excellence. Thus, with the objective of scrutinizing the exposed demand, first, it investigates the conception supported by John Rawls, prominent defender of state anti-perfectionism in the 20th century; then, it analyzes the foundation of the finnisian political theory – community, flourishing and authority –; so that, finally, after the criticism directed at Rawlsian arguments, the delimitation of the political common good, as the sphere of state action in the conduct of people, can emerge as a perfectionist political alternative.
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