Intergenerational Justice

Intergenerational relationships encompass two types: synchronous relationship between neighboring generations within the same time period, and asynchronous relationship between the current generation and both past and the future generations. The synchronous relationship requires not only an emphasis on the fundamental rules of social justice but also on its specific practices, including the concrete methods of “consultation” and “pragmatic accommodation,” which must be implemented according to direct and effective rules for social justice. The asynchronous relationship also requires an emphasis on the fundamental rules of social justice, which must be guaranteed via the relatively fixed responsibilities and duties that each generation holds toward the others and integrated via the institutionalization of social justice according to relatively fixed rules. Specific requirements for intergenerational justice include determining a suitable and socially just “savings rate,” ensuring equal opportunity, distribution according to contribution; and creating the equal conditions necessary for the development of younger generations. Intergenerational justice plays an important and positive role in ensuring the healthy sustainability of social development and improving its quality.