What does Rawls mean by the "basic structure of society"? What are some things that you think Rawls would include in the basic structure of society and what are some things that you think he would say are not part of the basic structure of society?

John Rawls, a prominent political philosopher, defines the "basic structure of society" as the way in which the major social institutions distribute fundamental rights and duties and determine the division of advantages from social cooperation.

Rawls would likely include institutions such as the political constitution, the legal system, the economic market, the family, and the education system as part of the basic structure. These institutions have a profound influence on citizens' life prospects and opportunities, and they distribute significant social goods such as wealth, income, power, and opportunities.

On the other hand, Rawls would probably argue that certain social clubs, private organizations, and personal relationships are not part of the basic structure. While these entities can influence individuals' lives, they do not have the same broad, society-wide impact as the major institutions mentioned above. They also do not distribute fundamental rights and duties or determine the division of advantages from social cooperation in the same way.