social justice
Social justice (noun) means the principle that wealth, opportunity and rights should be distributed fairly across a society, and the political and campaigning work aimed at achieving that. Example: “The charity frames access to clean water as a social justice issue.”
How to Use Social justice
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe idea that society should share its opportunities and resources fairly.
Neutral in most contexts, though politically loaded in some.
Fill the Gap
Can you complete this real example?
The charity frames access to clean water as a _____ issue.
Etymology
From 'social', from Latin 'socialis' meaning 'of companionship', plus 'justice', from Latin 'iustitia'.
Synonyms
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Related Words
Rhymes for social justice
See all rhymes for social justice →Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between social justice and equality?
Equality means treating everyone identically. Social justice accepts that people start from different positions and asks what would actually produce a fair outcome, which sometimes means giving more support to those who begin with less. The distinction is often summarised as equality versus equity.
Why is 'social justice warrior' an insult?
The term is used sarcastically to suggest someone campaigns online for the status it brings rather than out of genuine conviction. It says nothing about the merits of social justice itself, and many people described that way wear the label with pride.
Is social justice a left-wing idea?
It is most associated with the political left, but the phrase has deep roots in Catholic social teaching and is used across the spectrum. What people disagree about is not usually whether society should be fair but what fairness requires and who should deliver it.