Equality

I support the view that equality is natural and the inequalities we see around us are largely created by society. The chapter says that all human beings deserve the same respect and consideration because of their common humanity. It also explains that many inequalities are socially-produced, not natural—for example, inequalities based on caste, race, colour, gender, or birth.

Some differences among people are natural, such as differences in talents, abilities, or interests. But these do not justify treating some people as inferior or denying them opportunities. Inequalities become unjust when they are caused by social position, customs, laws, or discrimination. For example, denying a child good food or education because of poverty, or excluding women from rights, is not natural; it is socially created.

So, while people may differ in ability, equal rights and equal opportunities are natural and necessary, and the unfair inequalities around us are mostly the result of society.

Yes, I agree. The chapter explains that absolute economic equality has probably never existed in any society, and it may not even be desirable because people differ in talent, effort, and choices. A society cannot make everyone exactly equal in wealth or income.

However, this does not mean that large inequalities should be accepted. The important aim should be to reduce the gap between the richest and the poorest and to prevent inequalities from becoming entrenched over generations. Very large and permanent gaps lead to injustice, resentment, and the waste of talent.

So the best approach is not absolute equality, but reducing extreme economic inequality and ensuring equal opportunities, minimum standards of living, education, and health care for all.

Match each concept with the correct instance:

- Affirmative action means special support to help deprived groups, so it matches every child should get free education.
- Equality of opportunity means special treatment to remove disadvantage, so it matches banks offer higher rate of interest to senior citizens.
- Equal Rights means all adult citizens have the same political rights, so it matches every adult citizen has a right to vote.

So the correct matching is:
- (a) → (iii)
- (b) → (ii)
- (c) → (i)