The difference principle demands that inequalities in the distribution of primary goods must be to the greatest benefit to the least-advantaged members of society. The difference principle allows for inequalities in distribution if they comport with this rule and the just savings principle, which utilizes the veil of ignorance and the principle of mutual disinterestedness to determine a level of savings guided by the assumption that all other generations have saved or will save in accordance with the same principle. The difference principle is lower in priority to equal liberties and the equal opportunity principle, and therefore inequalities in distribution cannot result in any restriction of liberty for any person.

The second principle of justice addresses distributive shares, which dictate distributive justice. Both the difference principle and the just savings principle govern distributive shares to achieve distributive justice for the least advantaged in every generation.

The principles of justice create a basic structure that regulates society’s institutions and develops a social system to achieve distributive justice. This system consists of four (and sometimes five) branches. The allocation branch maintains competition in the price system and prevents the formation of unreasonable market power. The stabilization branch establishes reasonably full employment, free choice of occupation, and strong demand.