Equality

Definition

Equality refers to the state of being equal, especially in status, rights, and opportunities. In the context of social contract theories, equality is a fundamental principle that asserts that all individuals possess inherent worth and should have equal access to rights and resources. This concept plays a crucial role in shaping political philosophy, influencing debates on justice, representation, and individual freedom.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In social contract theory, equality is often viewed as a prerequisite for legitimate political authority and governance.
2. Historically, the idea of equality has been challenged by various forms of discrimination and hierarchy, prompting movements advocating for civil rights and social justice.
3. Feminist critiques highlight how traditional social contract theories often overlook gender equality, calling for a re-examination of how equality is defined and implemented.
4. The principles of equality were significantly influenced by Enlightenment thinkers, who argued that individuals are born with equal rights regardless of social status or wealth.
5. During the French Revolution, equality became a rallying cry as revolutionaries sought to dismantle feudal hierarchies and promote the idea that all citizens should have equal standing under the law.

Review Questions

• How does the principle of equality serve as a foundational element in social contract theories?
  • The principle of equality serves as a foundational element in social contract theories by asserting that every individual possesses equal moral worth and should have equal access to rights and opportunities. This idea supports the legitimacy of governmental authority, as it implies that any social contract must recognize and uphold the equal status of all citizens. By emphasizing equality, social contract theorists argue that just societies must ensure equitable treatment and representation for everyone.
• In what ways do feminist critiques challenge traditional notions of equality within social contract theories?
  • Feminist critiques challenge traditional notions of equality within social contract theories by highlighting how historical frameworks often exclude women from the conversation about rights and representation. They argue that many classic social contract theorists did not consider women's experiences or perspectives, leading to an incomplete understanding of equality. Feminists advocate for a more inclusive approach that recognizes gender differences and seeks to address systemic inequalities faced by women in both public and private spheres.
• Evaluate how the concept of equality influenced the ideals presented during the French Revolution and its lasting impact on modern political thought.
  • The concept of equality significantly influenced the ideals presented during the French Revolution, where revolutionaries declared that 'all men are born free and equal in rights.' This emphasis on equality challenged existing feudal hierarchies and called for the establishment of a society where citizens had equal standing under the law. The lasting impact of this revolutionary ideal can be seen in modern political thought, where principles of democracy, human rights, and social justice continue to center around notions of equality as fundamental to achieving fair governance and societal progress.

Related terms

Social Contract:

An implicit agreement among individuals to form a society and accept certain moral and political obligations in exchange for protection of their rights.

Natural Rights:

Rights that are considered inherent and universal to all individuals, often including life, liberty, and property.

Justice:

The principle of fairness that seeks to ensure individuals receive what they are due, which is deeply intertwined with notions of equality and social equity.