Justice/Fairness

I have never really contemplated the difference between unfairness and injustice. But today my mind was drawn towards these ideas. I realized that the two terms are often used interchangeably, but if you really ponder over it, there are finer differences between the two. They are not completely dissimilar concepts; however,unfairness, in my opinion, is about comparing your own outcomes relative to those of another. Now this could be someone significant to you or not. That is immaterial. Another ready example that comes to mind is an unfair advantage, for instance Phelp's controversial swimming gear that apparently gave him an edge over the others. Some lament that the world is 'unfair', yet others rightly term it as 'unjust'. Does the difference lie in language only?Or is it really more profound?

To me, justice is age-old and notions of injustice, while encompassing ideas of unfairness, include a broader spectrum. For instance, it is unfair that I need a Schengan visa to travel Europe, while Americans do not, but it certainly isn't unjust. However, it is unjust if I as a woman am discriminated against based on the fact that I am a member of the 'weaker sex.' Thus, in terms of impact, justice is a greater concern than unfairness. It transcends the personal and hence assumes far greater significance.

They will continue to be concepts whose boundaries are blurred. They will invariably merge in certain situations and in others stand vehemently in opposition to one another. But these subtle distinctions can make a world of difference, when you take into account the broader implications, both personally and globally.