MENTAL MODEL · M4211

Distributive Justice

BehaviorHigh supportSocial Psychology

Included

Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-30

CORE DEFINITION

A dimension of fairness theory, focusing on the fairness of the outcomes of resource allocation. It includes three criteria: the equality principle (equal for all), the need principle (distribution according to need), and the contribution principle (distribution according to contribution). Individuals' perception of distributive justice affects satisfaction, motivation, and organizational behavior.

SCAFFOLDING EFFECT

psychology

Reduce cognitive load

Guidance for resource allocation. In compensation management, reward distribution, and resource allocation, understanding the criteria of distributive justice. It helps us maintain distributive justice by clarifying allocation criteria, balancing different principles, considering individual differences, and communicating in a timely manner, thereby improving satisfaction, motivation, and organizational harmony.

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Anchor fast decisions

An extension of Adams' equity theory. Distributive justice refers to the subjective perception of the fairness of "outcomes", influenced by three criteria: equality, need, and contribution. The mechanism is "social comparison of input-output ratios" — people not only look at what they receive, but also compare whether their (output/input) ratio is balanced relative to a reference group.

MINIMUM ACTION

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Practice this model in one real situation:

Clarify the allocation principle to be used (equality/need/contribution).
Make the criteria transparent and actionable.
Communicate the rationale to reduce speculation.
Balance different principles and individual differences.

Check to track your progress (stored locally)

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Source support: Explicit

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en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Distributive_justiceZH · Explicit
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