BEYOND RHETORIC: A CRITICAL EXAMINATION OF SOCIAL JUSTICE THEORY IN DEVELOPMENT

This study explores the historical development of Social Justice Theory and its relevance in the context of development planning. The research adopts a descriptive narrative method to trace the evolution of the theory from ancient Greek philosophers to contemporary thinkers. Social justice is defined as a framework for political goals that promote equality of outcome and treatment, recognizing the worth and dignity of all individuals and fostering participation, particularly among the most disadvantaged.The study finds that Social Justice Theory has undergone significant transformations over time, from the distributive approach of Rawls and Craig to the more recent focus on community rights and development impacts, as advocated by Fraser. However, the scope of social justice theory has become increasingly broad, encompassing issues such as land distribution, housing, and economic development policies. This has led to debates about the viability of social justice as the primary parameter for development, as other factors such as economic growth and efficiency may also be prioritized.Overall, the study highlights the ongoing relevance of Social Justice Theory in development planning, particularly in ensuring that policies and practices promote equality and justice for all. However, it also underscores the need for critical examination of the theory's practical implications, particularly in light of its broad scope and potential conflicts with other development priorities.