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Chapter Analysis
Intermediate20 pages • EnglishQuick Summary
This chapter explores the concept of equality as a central political and moral ideal. It examines the complexities of implementing equality through formal laws and affirmative actions, illustrating the distinction between natural and social inequalities. By discussing political, social, and economic dimensions, the chapter addresses how equality can be pursued to create a fair and just society.
Key Topics
- •Political equality
- •Social equality
- •Economic equality
- •Affirmative action
- •Natural vs. social inequalities
- •Equality before the law
- •Differential treatment for equality
Learning Objectives
- ✓Understand the philosophical underpinnings of equality.
- ✓Examine different forms of equality: political, social, and economic.
- ✓Critically evaluate affirmative action and its role in promoting equality.
- ✓Distinguish between natural and socially-produced inequalities.
- ✓Analyze how equality is pursued within formal legal frameworks.
- ✓Discuss the implications of equality on policy-making and governance.
Questions in Chapter
Some people argue that inequality is natural while others maintain that it is equality which is natural and the inequalities which we notice around us are created by society. Which view do you support? Give reasons.
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There is a view that absolute economic equality is neither possible nor desirable. It is argued that the most a society can do is to try and reduce the gaps between the richest and poorest members of society. Do you agree?
Page 51
Match the following concepts with appropriate instances.
Answer: Affirmative action - Banks offer higher rate of interest to senior citizens; Equality of opportunity - Every child should get free education; Equal Rights - Every adult citizen has a right to vote.
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A government report on farmers’ problems says that small and marginal farmers cannot get good prices from the market. It recommends that the government should intervene to ensure a better price but only for small and marginal farmers. Is this recommendation consistent with the principle of equality?
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Which of the following violate the principles of equality? And why?
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Here are some arguments in favour of the right to vote for women. Which of these are consistent with the idea of equality? Give reasons.
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Additional Practice Questions
What are the social and economic justifications for affirmative action?
mediumAnswer: Affirmative action is justified on the grounds that it helps correct historical injustices and entrenched disparities by providing disadvantaged groups with preferential access to opportunities. This can help foster their social mobility and integration.
Explain the distinction between political equality and social equality.
easyAnswer: Political equality refers to equal rights of participation in political processes, including the right to vote and stand for public office, ensuring that each citizen's voice has equal weight. Social equality pertains to the absence of social hierarchies and barriers that inhibit equal social participation.
Discuss the role of the constitution in promoting equality.
mediumAnswer: Constitutions play a crucial role in promoting equality by enshrining non-discrimination principles, ensuring equal protection under the law, and establishing mechanisms for redressing inequalities, such as affirmative action policies.
How do natural inequalities differ from socially-produced inequalities?
mediumAnswer: Natural inequalities arise from inherent differences in individuals' abilities and talents, whereas socially-produced inequalities result from historical, cultural, or systemic barriers that prevent equal access to resources and opportunities.
Analyze how economic inequalities impact political equality.
hardAnswer: Economic inequalities can undermine political equality by concentrating resources and influence in the hands of the wealthy, skewing policy priorities, and limiting the political engagement and representation of poorer citizens.