MEVE 017: Unit 08 - Introduction to Social Justice

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UNIT 8: INTRODUCTION TO SOCIAL JUSTICE

8.0 Introduction

Social justice is the idea that every person should be treated fairly and equally in society, regardless of their caste, class, religion, gender, or background. It is about ensuring that everyone has equal access to resources, rights, and opportunities. This unit introduces the concept of social justice, its key theories, and its connection to the Indian Constitution and environmental justice.

8.1 Objectives

This unit will help you:

  • Understand the meaning of social justice
  • Learn different theories and perspectives of justice
  • Explore how social justice is included in the Indian Constitution
  • Understand the link between social justice and environmental protection
  • Know about movements like the Chipko Movement that combine both social and environmental justice

8.2 Understanding Social Justice

Social justice means fairness in how people are treated in society. It focuses on giving everyone what they need to live with dignity—like education, healthcare, clean water, and equal rights. Social justice also involves removing discrimination and giving special support to marginalized groups such as women, Dalits, Adivasis, and the poor.

8.3 Perspectives on Social Justice

8.3.1 Utilitarian and Libertarian Theories

The Utilitarian theory says that justice means doing what creates the greatest good for the greatest number of people. It focuses on overall happiness, even if it means some people may not benefit equally.
The Libertarian theory believes in individual freedom and limited government control. It says people should be free to earn and keep their wealth, and justice means protecting individual rights, not forcing equality.

8.3.2 Egalitarianism

Egalitarianism is the idea that all people should be treated equally. It supports reducing inequality by helping disadvantaged groups and giving everyone equal access to resources and opportunities. This theory strongly supports social justice and believes that fairness means actively correcting past injustices.

8.4 Contemporary Understandings of Social Justice

Today, social justice is seen as more than just economic equality. It includes social inclusion, gender justice, environmental rights, cultural respect, and participation in decision-making. Modern social justice also involves ensuring that development does not harm people or nature, and that all communities have a voice in shaping their future.

8.5 Social Justice in the Constitution of India

The Indian Constitution strongly supports social justice. It guarantees equality before law, no discrimination, and equal opportunity for all citizens. It also provides reservation policies to uplift Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs). Articles like 15, 16, and 17 focus on removing untouchability, ensuring fair treatment, and supporting weaker sections. The Directive Principles of State Policy also guide the government to build a just and equal society.

8.6 Social Justice and Environmental Justice

Environmental justice means that all people—regardless of their background—have the right to live in a clean and safe environment. It combines the goals of social justice with environmental protection. For example, if a polluting factory is built near a poor village, it affects their health and life, which is unjust. Environmental justice movements fight against such unequal environmental harm.

8.6.1 Environmental Justice Movements in India

In India, many movements have raised their voices for both nature and people. These movements protect forests, rivers, and lands while also fighting for the rights of tribal people, women, and farmers. They demand fair treatment and equal say in how natural resources are used.

8.6.2 The Chipko Movement

The Chipko Movement is a powerful example of environmental justice. It started in Uttarakhand in the 1970s when villagers, especially women, hugged trees to stop them from being cut. This movement was not only about saving trees but also about saving the lives of people who depended on the forest. It highlighted the deep link between protecting nature and ensuring justice for local communities.

8.7 Let Us Sum Up

Social justice is a key principle for building a fair and equal society. It ensures that everyone gets basic rights and opportunities to live a good life. Different theories help us understand what justice means, from focusing on individual freedom to promoting equality. The Indian Constitution supports social justice in both law and policy. Environmental justice is an important part of this concept today, as many people face both social and environmental challenges. Movements like Chipko show us how justice and ecology go hand in hand.

 

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