The article analyses John Rawls’ perspective on interpersonal relationships and on the link between
the concepts of the individual, person and community, by the manner in which these
topics are presented in his graduation thesis, delivered to the Faculty of Philosophy of Princeton
University in 1942.
In particular, the work focuses on the transformation from individual to person within the
community. The community is essential so that, in the individual, the maturation that leads him
to become a person can take place. At the same time, persons are crucial so that the community
does not disintegrate, but rather becomes a system of cooperation.
The circularity of the connection between individuals, persons and community is, therefore,
one of the central elements of this inquiry. In the conclusion of the work, this is put in relation
with key concepts of the philosopher’s mature production, such as those of citizen, sense of justice
and society. The aim is to demonstrate that an in-depth study of Rawls’ earlier work can
provide innovative and stimulating ideas for the interpretation of his later thought.The article analyses John Rawls’ perspective on interpersonal relationships and on the link between
the concepts of the individual, person and community, by the manner in which these
topics are presented in his graduation thesis, delivered to the Faculty of Philosophy of Princeton
University in 1942.
In particular, the work focuses on the transformation from individual to person within the
community. The community is essential so that, in the individual, the maturation that leads him
to become a person can take place. At the same time, persons are crucial so that the community
does not disintegrate, but rather becomes a system of cooperation.
The circularity of the connection between individuals, persons and community is, therefore,
one of the central elements of this inquiry. In the conclusion of the work, this is put in relation
with key concepts of the philosopher’s mature production, such as those of citizen, sense of justice
and society. The aim is to demonstrate that an in-depth study of Rawls’ earlier work can
provide innovative and stimulating ideas for the interpretation of his later thought.
