Pluralism of Justice: A Comparative Study of Eastern and Western Conceptions of Justice

Justice has been a central theme in philosophy, law, and religion, shaping ethical and political thought throughout history. However, diverse traditions have led to debates over whether justice is a universal concept or a culturally and contextually defined construct. This study conducts a comparative analysis of Eastern and Western conceptions of justice, focusing on Aristotle, Utilitarianism, and Rawlsian justice in the Western tradition, as well as Hindu, Buddhist, and Islamic perspectives in the Eastern tradition. The research problem centres on the pluralistic nature of justice in contemporary society, where diverse cultural, religious, and philosophical conceptions coexist. This research adopts a comparative analytical approach, evaluating primary texts and secondary literature from Western and Eastern traditions. The study employs conceptual analysis to identify key principles of justice across different frameworks and interpretive analysis to assess how these principles influence contemporary legal and ethical thought. A thematic analysis is conducted to highlight areas of convergence and divergence, particularly regarding liberty, equality, and the treatment of marginalised groups. The study identifies common interests across traditions, such as ethical behaviour, rationality, human welfare, and social order, but also notes fundamental differences in their approach to individual rights, legal structures, and the treatment of noncitizens. The findings reveal that while Western philosophical theories emphasise reason, fairness, and institutional justice, Eastern religious traditions integrate justice with moral duty, community obligations, and spiritual considerations. While tensions exist, these perspectives are not necessarily irreconcilable; instead, they can inform a more holistic approach to justice in an increasingly globalised world. The study demonstrates that conceptions of justice are diverse and interconnected, with Western and Eastern traditions offering valuable insights into this complex concept. By bridging philosophical and religious perspectives, the study advances the discourse on justice and its role in shaping fair and equitable societies.