In the original position "... no one knows his place in society, his class position or social status, nor does any one know his fortune, in the distribution of natural assets and abilities, his intelligence, strength, and the like... [T]he parties do not know their conceptions of the good or their special psychological propensities. The principles of justice are chosen behind a veil of ignorance."

"Since ... no one is able to design principles to favor his particular condition, the principles of justice are the result of a fair agreement or bargain."