SUS1501
ASSIGNMENT 4 SEMESTER 2 2024
UNIQUE NO. 688400
DUE DATE: 13 SEPTEMBER 2024
, SUS1501
Assignment 4 Semester 2 2024
Unique Number: 688400
Due Date: 13 September 2024
Sustainability and Greed
Is this ok?
The question here asks whether the incredible wealth of tech billionaires, built on cobalt
mining under horrific conditions (often involving child labor), is morally acceptable. To
answer this, we’ll take a closer look at the inequality by applying John Rawls’
principles of justice, considering the issue through his veil of ignorance, and then give
an honest opinion on this matter.
1. Analyzing the Inequalities Using Rawls' Principles
John Rawls presents three key principles that help us think about justice and fairness.
Let's break these down one by one in the context of tech billionaires and child labor in
cobalt mining.
a. The Liberty Principle (Equal Basic Rights)
Rawls believes that everyone should have the same basic rights and freedoms. These
rights include the right to life, freedom from exploitation, and the ability to live a dignified
life.
In this case, the cobalt miners, especially the children, are clearly being denied these
basic rights. While tech billionaires enjoy extreme wealth, children in the DRC are
forced to work in dangerous conditions, often without proper safety, education, or even
a childhood. This is a gross violation of their basic freedoms. In contrast, billionaires live