EQUALITY
Equality matters for several intertwined moral, social, and political reasons. At its core, the concept of equality is grounded in the idea of human dignity and worth. It recognises that each individual, regardless of their race, gender, nationality, or social status, has inherent value. This perspective informs universal human rights, as well as the legal systems that underpin democratic societies.
Throughout history, the call for equality has been a rallying cry against various forms of oppression. Whether it was the French Revolution advocating for Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity, or the anti-colonial movements in Asia and Africa, or the civil rights movements worldwide, the demand for equality has been instrumental in shaping political and social changes. These movements aimed to level the playing field by reducing systemic discrimination and increasing opportunities for marginalised communities.
Despite the global consensus that equality is essential, inequalities persist. The paradox — the coexistence of the ideal of equality and the reality of inequality — is not easily resolved. It points to the complex and often systemic nature of inequality, which can manifest in various ways, including economic disparities, lack of access to education and healthcare, and unequal treatment under the law.
The argument that inequality is a natural outcome of differences in talent and contribution is often used to justify the status quo. While it’s true that individuals differ in their abilities and contributions, it’s also true that many inequalities arise from systemic issues like discrimination, lack of opportunity, and social and economic policies that disproportionately benefit specific groups.