Types of Equality essays

Types of Equality essays Despite the guarantee in the Constitution that all men are equal, the meaning of equal and the ways to achieve equality are quite different. The greatest consensus and most clearly stated definition of equality comes from the Constitution and is the equality of opportunity. This would give everyone the same opportunities regardless of race, ethnic origin, religion, or sex. The second interpretation is the equality of starting conditions. This gives everyone, despite the terms of their discrimination, a chance to start out on the same level. This is often achieved by compensating the disadvantaged through federal programs such as Head Start. The third is equality among groups. Often there are large differences in wealth and advantage among groups and programs like affirmative action are designed to help people because of their membership to a certain group. The last is equality of results which guarantees minimum floor below which no one should be allowed to fall. To achieve equality, the concept of equality of opportunity must be fully embraced. Every business, school, and individual must look at people for what they have to offer instead of where they came from or whom they look like. At the same time, everyone must be given the opportunity to start at the same place. Federal programs, such as the previously mentioned Head Start, should be encouraged to do this. In order to succeed in the opportunities, a person must have the necessary skills that programs such as this can give them. Finally, communication about issues such as this should be encouraged. As long as people ignore the problems that effect disadvantaged people in society, they will continue. Schools, families, and society in general should be encouraged to address these issues in public and maybe a solution to absolute equality will finally be reached. ...