Abstract

The aim of this paper is to show that it is possible to reconcile Rawls’s political theory with Kantian ethics. Thus, we will evidence the potentials of John Rawls’ theory of justice and political liberalism and the capacities of his guiding principles to apply to a well-ordered society, that is, a representative constitutional democracy. We will show that a liberal policy is not possible without ethics. Only in this way can we direct political action towards the common good, towards a more just, fraternal, free and autonomous society. On the other hand, we present other political perspectives that in some cases differ from the political and ethical proposals presented by Rawls and Kant. We will also present other political perspectives from other authors who now approach Kant and Rawls’ political thinking, such as Ronald Dworkin, Norberto Bobbio, Michael Sandel, Charles Taylor and Robert Nozick. We will conclude the article with the presentation of some criticism of Rawls’ theory of Kantian inspiration, namely his theory of justice.