Secular concepts of equality

Question 1

Why may it not be desirable for everyone to receive the same amount of money?

Answer 1

Because some people may need more money to cover their basic needs

Question 2

What is the passive approach to the issue of equality?

Answer 2

Accepting that inequality is a natural part of the world; with society naturally organising itself into dominance hierarchies

Question 3

List the 4 different types of equality

Answer 3

• Strict
• Equality of need
• Equality of desert
• Equality of opportunity

Question 4

Define strict equality

Answer 4

Everyone has the same amount of goods

Question 5

Define equality of need

Answer 5

Marx’s idea that goods should be distributed ‘from each according to his ability, to each according to his need’

Question 6

How does equality of need solve the issues of strict equality?

Answer 6

Because people who need more can have more

Question 7

Define equality of desert

Answer 7

Goods should be distributed to the extent that people deserve them; those who do the most acquire the most resources

Question 8

Define equality of opportunity

Answer 8

Where people are able to pursue whichever course of actions best suits their abilities without discrimination on the basis of their background; this is legally enshrined in the UK

Question 9

What is the benefit of equality of opportunity?

Answer 9

Ensures that everyone is equally capable of reaping their deserved rewards