3.4: Equality of Opportunity Flashcards
What is the definition of equality of opportunity in a capitalist system?
Equality of opportunity is the assumption that all individuals or groups have an equal chance to respond to opportunities or conditions in society, allowing them to create wealth or success regardless of their background.
How did the frontier environment contribute to equality of opportunity in early Canadian business?
The frontier environment allowed individuals to establish and operate businesses with minimal government intervention.
This setting enabled people to create wealth by starting new businesses and moving to different regions if necessary.
What criticism is raised about the idea of a “new frontier” being discovered by Europeans?
The idea that Europeans discovered a “new frontier” is false, as Indigenous peoples had occupied these lands for thousands of years.
The Doctrine of Discovery and the concept of terra nullius are rejected as racist and legally invalid.
What are the ethical challenges of achieving equality of opportunity in a capitalist system?
In reality, equality of opportunity is difficult to achieve due to structures that lead to income and economic inequality.
Issues include stagnant wages while profits increase, the growing gap between rich and poor, and gender income disparity.
What is gender equality, and why is it important for businesses?
Gender equality means that all genders have equal opportunities to realize their rights and participate in economic and decision-making processes.
For businesses, achieving gender equality is essential for profitability, reputation, and the inclusion of diverse perspectives in leadership.
What are the key statistics related to gender income inequality in Canada?
According to Statistics Canada (StatsCan), women’s income based on hourly wages is 88% of men’s.
Additionally, gender-diverse individuals, such as transgender persons and 2SLGBTQQIA+ persons, are more likely to face discrimination in employment, earn less, and encounter barriers in career advancement.
What are some initiatives businesses can take to foster gender equality?
Increase access to education and training.
Ensure non-discriminatory hiring practices.
Develop policies for employment parental leave.
Offer mentorship for women and gender-diverse individuals.
Ensure fair representation in senior management and decision-making positions.
How does the concept of equity differ from equality in the context of opportunity?
Equality provides the same opportunities to all, while equity focuses on fairness, ensuring individuals receive the support they need based on their specific circumstances.
In practice, equity means addressing barriers and providing resources tailored to different needs to ensure fair outcomes.
