Document Type

Honors Project

Publication Date

6-13-2025

Abstract

It is commonly assumed that political justice requires the universal and unconditional distribution of political authority, particularly in the form of suffrage. This analysis refutes that assumption, arguing instead that a just republic must condition political suffrage on demonstrated civic competence rather than mere demographic presence. Political rights are not natural entitlements but civil responsibilities, entrusted through public reason and institutional mechanisms designed to ensure that only those who possess the requisite competencies may exercise political authority.

Justice is understood here not as procedural equality but as substantive equity—a calibrated alignment between civic capacity and political authority. Drawing on classical and modern frameworks, including Aristotle’s distinction between the politēs and the dēmos and Rawls’ theory of public reason, the argument defends a model of civic meritocracy wherein suffrage is earned through ethical and rational qualification. The thesis proposes specific institutional mechanisms, including a national system of civic education, periodic capacity assessments, and independent civic bodies to verify political competence, ensuring that the exercise of coercive authority remains legitimate and intelligible.

A just republic requires that political authority be exercised by those who are morally and cognitively equipped to govern, ensuring that fairness is grounded in qualitative equity rather than mere quantitative equality. This framework addresses the risks of democratic universalism, preventing governance by unqualified voices and safeguarding the integrity of the democratic system.

Level of Honors

magna cum laude

Department

Government

Advisor

Steven Wulf

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