Friday 24 May 2019

Exploring Concepts And Definitions Of Social Justice

By Shirley Anderson


People often interpret different public and private aspects of local, national and worldwide society differently. In most cases, these interpretations, often known as social justice, are considered to relate to the concept of just and fair practices between individuals and societies. Most often, the definition of which, is based on distribution of wealth, personal activity, social privilege, lifestyle and personal identity.

Current movements in this area now emphasize an importance on breaking different barriers, especially with regards to racial and economic inequality, social mobility and LGBTQ+ rights with regards to corporations and institutions which benefit individuals. Whereas, there are now conferences, programs and workshops related to the area being offered at a number of colleges and universities on an annual or semi-annual basis, of which most are open to the public such as the one held at Humboldt State University in Arcata, California.

Institutions often include equal employment opportunities, distribution of wealth, labor laws, regulation of markets, public services, public schools, public health centers, social insurance and taxation. In most cases, interpretation of these rights are mediated by different ethical and cultural traditions. Whereas, most all areas emphasize equality between individuals and the use of power in responsible positions.

The practice is often invoked during discussions about historical figures, philosophers and ideologies which differ in the overall human experience. In most cases, these differences refer to gender identity, racial equality, immigration reform, the environment and individuals whom are developmentally or physically disabled. More recently, issues related to LGBTQ+ and gender identity have also become part and parcel to the movement.

While the system can be traced back to Thomas Paine's philosophical beliefs and Augustine of Hippo, the term did not become used explicitly until the late 1700s. After which, the term and concept were used repeatedly during the revolutionary period surrounding 1848, then found popularity once again in the early 20th century during the civil rights and women's actions, marches and movements.

While research shows that the term dates back to the No 7 Federalist Papers in which it was used for the first time in print, it actually dates back to long before the 1700s. Although, it was not until the late industrial period when Americans began using the term on a regular basis. After which, the phrase began appearing in a number of law suits and educational materials at colleges and universities around the world.

Towards the end of the industrial revolution, more progressive scholars in America began using the term more frequently. Once the phrase was used to establish the International Labor Organization, it became more well known on a worldwide basis. Then, the term spread rapidly, with different countries and languages providing different definitions, concepts and meanings.

Newer research has confirmed that while previously a Jesuit priest had been recognized for coining the term, it is actually much older. For, while there is no certainty, it appears to date back to the days of the first Buddha and the concept of Enlightenment. While this makes sense, there is no way to know for sure when the term was coined though most believe it was well before 1748.




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