INTRODUCTION
Equality refers to the idea that all individuals should be treated similarly, regardless of their race, gender, religion, socioeconomic status, or any other characteristic. The concept of equality involves providing equal opportunities and outcomes for everyone and ensuring that everyone has the same rights and privileges.
DEFINITION
According to Barker, "equality means ending of special rights," is a common interpretation of the concept of equality, but it is not the only one. While ending special rights and privileges for certain individuals or groups is one aspect of promoting equality, the concept of equality is also about ensuring that everyone has equal access to opportunities, resources, and protections under the law. This broader definition recognizes that true equality requires not only the elimination of unjust privileges, but also the provision of resources and support to ensure that all individuals have the opportunity to thrive. In this sense, equality is about creating a level playing field for everyone, rather than simply taking away special rights from some.
TYPES OF EQUALITY
- NEGATIVE :- It means that every person is created equal by nature hence there should be no discrimination on the grounds of status, education, intelligence and ability. Equal rights and facilities should be provided to all.
- POSITIVE :- It means providing equal opportunity to all so everybody gets an equal chance to grow. But it does not mean to be treated equally. Equality means equal treatment according to qualifications, ability.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN EQUALITY AND LIBERTY
- BOTH ARE OPPOSITE :- Inequalities in the society are the creation of nature and nature did not create everyone equal . These inequalities are tried to reduce by force which goes against the law of nature. If economic equality is established which means equal opportunity for trade it limits the economic liberty and becomes hindrance. Every person cannot be treated the same at the same level as every person is different. It is wrong and immoral. To treat a doctor equal to an unemployed person will be unjust.
- BOTH ARE THE SAME :- The aim of equality and liberty is the same as they both want to develop the personality of an individual. In absence of equality, liberty cannot exist. In political liberty mens get an equal chance to participate in political affairs but without equality it becomes meaningless. Equality and liberty has grown together in history, Both were demanded simultaneously.
CONCLUSIONS
the concept of equality is central to many societies and is closely tied to issues of justice, fairness, and human rights. Negative and positive equality are the two main types of equality, with negative equality focusing on equal treatment under the law and equal access to basic rights and liberties, and positive equality focusing on actively promoting equality through the provision of resources and support. Achieving true equality remains a challenge in many parts of the world, but it remains an important goal for many individuals and organizations as they work to create a more just and equitable society for all. The relationship between equality and other values, such as liberty and justice, is complex and often requires a delicate balance, but the pursuit of equality remains a central and ongoing challenge for individuals, communities, and nations.