On the sense of justice

Abstract

The sense of justice is a universal psychosocial preoccupation that has developed in both the individual and society during the course of civilization.

A doctrine, a concept, and a striving comprise its three parts. The first of these finds its origins in fairness as command, fairness as contract, utilitarianism and divine command. The concept of justice is inherent in the child's expression of social justice, as suggested by Piaget, and brilliantly developed by Kohlberg. The striving for justice that is regulated through the harsh superego produces the “injustice collector” and the urge toward retribution; the benign superego encourages orderliness and affectionateness which is essential to the mutual respect that is required for the highest level of moral justice.