What is Justice in an Unjust World?

The English word justice originates from the Latin word ius, which means law. In its earliest sense, justice referred precisely to what was done according to the laws of the land. However, in today's world, it often feels like laws are not always fair or reasonable. Consider the example of Nazi Germany where the majority brutally murdered the minority. This historical context highlights that justice is subjective and varies depending on one's perspective.

The Concept of Fairness and Its Absence

Justice is not solely about material benefits. It involves fairness in various aspects of life. For instance, is it fair that someone intelligent and hardworking cannot secure a position as a Professor at Cambridge, while someone less capable might? Is it just that someone is terminally ill while others are happy and healthy? The lottery system can be seen as both a blessing and a curse. Many lottery winners later report dissatisfaction because, suddenly, they face challenges and responsibilities that seem overwhelming.

In a universe where fairness is often absent, the best approach is to do your best with the circumstances you have, and strive to avoid negativity that might cloud your judgment and actions.

The Illusion of Justice

Some argue that justice is a human construct and a flawed one at that. Justice inherently involves judgment of others, which can be seen as an act of injustice in itself. Who among us is perfect enough to judge another person? Even Jesus, a figure celebrated for his moral and ethical standards, is not immune to this criticism.

This does not mean we should do nothing to protect ourselves from harm. However, the concept of justice as we know it often leads to retribution and vengeance. Retribution is rooted in fear, hatred, and greed, and it is far from just or fair. In reality, it is a means to an end rather than a reflection of true justice.

Justice as an Unattainable Ideal

Can we honestly say that anyone ever truly receives justice in the world we have created? Life is filled with injustices. To those fortunate enough to have never experienced injustice, it might be challenging to grasp the full extent of the struggle. Those who have experienced life's harsh realities, such as deprivation and biased judgment, truly understand the value of living a just life.

Justice is therefore an unattainable ideal in an unjust world. It is a concept that we strive towards but which often remains out of reach. The pursuit of justice is a noble endeavor, yet its goal is often overshadowed by the realities of human imperfection and the limitations of the legal system.

In the end, the best we can do is to continue to strive for fairness, even if true justice remains a distant dream. Understanding the complexities of this pursuit can help us navigate the challenges of an unjust world with a clearer sense of purpose and compassion.