Which philosopher is known for advocating the idea of a 'veil of ignorance' to assess fairness in society?

The philosopher recognized for promoting the concept of the 'veil of ignorance' is John Rawls. This idea is a critical component of his theory of justice, which he articulates in his influential work, "A Theory of Justice."

The 'veil of ignorance' serves as a thought experiment designed to assess the fairness of social arrangements. It requires individuals to consider principles of justice without any knowledge of their personal circumstances, such as their social status, wealth, abilities, or even personal preferences. By doing so, Rawls argues that people would choose principles that ensure fairness and equality because they could find themselves in any position within society. This approach prioritizes a fair and equitable framework for justice instead of one that favors the already privileged or powerful.

The other philosophers mentioned have different focuses and ideas. Plato's work emphasizes ideal forms and the role of philosopher-kings, Richard Posner is known for his teachings on law and economics, and John Stuart Mill is recognized for his contributions to utilitarian philosophy. None of these approaches engage with the concept of fairness through the lens of the 'veil of ignorance' as effectively as Rawls does.