What Is Social Justice?

Social justice is founded on the notion of a just society, and refers to the perception of justice, when applied to an entire society. Social justice refers to the social environment where individuals and groups are guaranteed fair treatment and are entitled to a fair share of the benefits of society.

Perceptions of a just society differ with different political ideologies. Human rights, the rule of law and some form of social welfare are universally accepted as being the pre-requisites to social justice. Left-wing ideologies however, advocate an extensive use of democracy, with income redistribution and either a non-market-based economic model or a mixed economy. The right-wing generally believes that embracing meritocracy, a free market system, and the promotion of charity and philanthropy are the best ways to achieve 'social justice'.

Social justice also describes the move towards a socially just world. Social justice is then based on human rights and equality.