System Justification Theory
What is System Justification Theory?
System justification theory explains why individuals often defend and rationalize existing social, economic, and political systems, even when those systems disadvantage them. This tendency can be seen in everyday environments, like at school, work, or in our communities, where questioning the system may feel risky.
The Basic Idea
After a class discussion about the academic standards required for college admission, a high school senior lingers behind. They approach the teacher and say quietly, “It’s harder for students like me to keep up. I’m working nights, we don’t have Wi-Fi at home, and I can’t afford tutoring.” The teacher pauses for a moment, then says, “I grew up the same way. I made it. You can too. If you want something badly enough, you’ll figure it out. And honestly, you’ll probably come out stronger than the kids who’ve had it easy.”
It sounds like encouragement—a personal story meant to inspire. But in that moment, something else happens. The student’s real barriers are reframed as character-building challenges. The conversation shifts away from structural inequality and toward individual effort. The system itself is left untouched, treated as neutral or even a benefit.
System justification theory explains this response as the tendency to defend and legitimize existing systems, even when they create harm. Often, those who’ve experienced disadvantage become its strongest defenders—not because the system helped them, but because believing it’s fair feels more secure than facing the possibility that it isn’t.
“People have a hard time letting go of their suffering. Out of a fear of the unknown, they prefer suffering that is familiar.”
— Thich Nhat Hanh, Vietnamese author, peace activist, and Buddhist monk1
About the Author
Joy VerPlanck
Dr. VerPlanck brings over two decades of experience helping teams learn and lead in high-stakes environments. With a background in instructional design and behavioral science, she develops practical solutions at the intersection of people and technology. Joy holds a Doctorate in Educational Technology and a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership, and often writes about cognitive load and creativity as levers to enhance performance.
