This article discusses a perspective of justice focused on the capabilities and needs of individuals and their application in the field of health. In the introduction, two general observations are made in order to contextualize the theme of distributive or social justice. Next, the ontological view of human beings based on the writings of the young Karl Marx is outlined. Thirdly, a perspective of justice - understood as praxis - and its application in the field of health are defended. Finally, some concluding remarks are made, which emphasize the importance of studies that connect the reflections on contemporary theories of justice and public policy and in particular in the field of public health within the Marxist tradition.
social justice; capabilities and human needs; health; Karl Marx