method of reflective equilibrium

The method of reflective equilibrium is a philosophical approach, most notably developed by John Rawls, used to justify ethical theories. It suggests that a sound ethical theory should align with the moral judgments that rational individuals would endorse after careful consideration. This involves a balancing act between the plausibility of the theory and the moral judgments it accounts for.

Essentially, it's about finding a coherent balance between our considered moral judgments and the general principles of our ethical theories. If there's a conflict, either the theory or the judgments might need adjustment. This process aims to construct ethical principles from existing societal concepts rather than discovering absolute moral truths. Reflective individuals often engage in this kind of calm, quiet consideration of ideas and actions.12