nomy, government as a moral force and political socialization. The application of these rolesis necessary to the quality of democracy because they "attempt to increase social justice, improve economic efficiency, encouragemorality and socialize citizens to accept obligations appropriate to their roles in the existing society."(Godwin&Wahlke 23) Byattempting to accomplish these goals, things like discrimination, public opinion and self-interest are discouraged by the promotion ofa common morality. Government as a moral force, in a way, works with social justice in that it sets the foundation of which socialjustice attempts to achieve. Standards, set by the people and implied by the government, should promote and be built around "natural law." Locke's theory of "natural law" produces "natural rights,'' providing the right to life, liberty,property, and equality before the law. (Godwin&Wahlke 48) These rights encourage an equal chance in life for freedom andproperty/wealth. To protect society and individuals from discrimination by preserving equal rights, social justice attempts to providean enjoyable life and an opportunity for equality, whether it be social or economic. This role of the government is needed to provide agateway for the less fortunate and struggling people of America to have an equal chance of success and happiness in life. Incontrast to the "Gospel of Wealth" which William Henley states, "I am the master of my own fate; I am the captain of my own soul,"(Bizzell&Herzberg 415) Rawls believes that "Institutions should be created to keep people from falling below a minimal threshold ofwell-being. No one should be so disadvantaged that they cannot maintain their self-respect and defend their interests against peopleof much greater wealth or power." (Godwin&Wahlke 63-64) Social justice is essential to the quality of democracy because, withoutit, society would allow selfishness, public opinion, and personal interest to rule, con...
