Political Liberalism And Religion In John Rawls' Thought: From Origin To Formation

Abstract

This study deals with the question of religion in John Rawls' political liberalism. One of the most prominent contributions made by Rawls within the field of political liberalism lies in reconstructing religion within the framework of political liberalism, through forming an ethical ground that accommodates the problem of pluralism in its various forms, whether religious, philosophical, or ethical that make up modern societies. Despite the fact that John Rawls' political philosophy has received great interest within political studies in the twenty-first century, yet the question of religion in Rawls' political philosophy has had the least concern among academic researches. In fact, the interest of religion in his intellectual experience has deep roots in two of his earlier writings: firstly, his undergraduate thesis on the topic of faith and sin, and secondly, his autobiography, where he addressed his religious experience. The importance of considering these writings relies on considering the earlier questions and interest in John Rawls' thought. Particularly, his trust in the religious ground to explain ongoing ethical problems he has encountered through his earlier intellectual life. This study suggests that his formative beginnings, which could be shaped by his religious tendencies and his religious grown-up, contributed to Rawls' political philosophy, especially by bringing people with religious background to be part of the public political sphere and to have a role through achieving political consensus.