Which theory argues that a just distribution maximizes the net good for society?

• A. Utilitarian theories of justice
• B. Egalitarian theories of justice
• C. Libertarian theories of justice
• D. Positive rights theory

Answer: (A)

The main idea is that justice is evaluated by consequences that maximize overall welfare. In utilitarian theories of justice, the just distribution is the one that yields the greatest net good for society—taking into account the total happiness or well-being of everyone. This approach uses the sum of utilities across all individuals and judges outcomes by how much welfare they produce, even if that means some people do better than others or that equality isn’t perfect. That focus on maximizing total welfare explains why utilitarian theory is the correct match to the description. By contrast, egalitarian theories prioritize equality, libertarian theories emphasize individual rights and voluntary exchanges, and positive rights theories stress entitlements to certain goods—none of which center the distribution on maximizing the overall net good.