French Literature Reviews - 2026

A. Boyer, Apologie de John Rawls
Philosophy, Anthropology and Ideas

Apologie de John Rawls

Alain Boyer

Publication date: 07/02/2018
Publisher: PUF
ISBN: 978-2-13-080143-6
EAN: 9782130801436
Number of pages: 335 p.

John Rawls's work is now universally recognized as epoch-making. However, certain radical objections to his project—such as those raised by the "libertarian" Robert Nozick or the "communitarian" Michael Sandel—are still considered decisive by many. In particular, it is often argued that "political liberalism" and "justice as fairness" are grounded in a flawed conception of the person.

This book aims to respond to these objections, alongside several others (including those from utilitarian John Harsanyi and Marxist G. A. Cohen). It is an "apology" in the classical Greek sense of the word: a "defense" against objections. Rawls's theory of justice, rooted in the moral ideas of solidarity and reciprocity, does not imply an "abstract" conception of the person devoid of qualities, attachments, or any connection to the world and history.

Rawls's critique of the major utilitarian tradition—namely, that it "does not take seriously the distinction between persons"—cannot be turned against him. His philosophy, both liberal and social, rests partly on the principle of personal integrity and continues to serve as a vital source of inspiration.

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An article reviewing this book can be read on en-attendant-nadeau.fr;

"Lire (vraiment) Rawls", par A. Policar.

A Theory of Justice has sometimes been described as an argumentative cathedral. Anyone doubting the accuracy of this assessment need only be advised to read Alain Boyer's Apologie de Rawls. Suffice it to say that the commentator rises admirably to the challenge of his subject. He is thoroughly familiar with every facet of the immense American philosopher's work, and his defense is further enhanced by a brisk, sharply ironic style.

Alain Boyer positions his study within the broader tradition of contemporary political philosophy, addressing the intense debates that followed the publication of landmark works like A Theory of Justice. By engaging with major intellectual currents of the twentieth century, the book examines how egalitarian liberalism responds to critics who advocate for radically different frameworks of social organization. This volume will particularly engage students of philosophy, political scientists, and readers seeking a deeper comprehension of modern liberal thought and its foundational concepts of solidarity and reciprocity.

The book systematically dismantles common misunderstandings regarding Rawlsian anthropology, notably the charge that his famous original position relies on an entirely disembodied or abstract subject. By clarifying how personal integrity and social cooperation intertwine in this philosophical framework, Boyer helps readers navigate complex discussions concerning distributive justice and institutional design. It serves as an illuminating guide for anyone wishing to evaluate the enduring viability of social liberalism against utilitarian, libertarian, and egalitarian challenges in contemporary political discourse.