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Single Idea 23256

[filed under theme 25. Social Practice / B. Equalities / 1. Grounds of equality ]

Full Idea

Liberty and equality appear to be irresolvable contradictions.

Gist of Idea

Liberty and equality cannot be reconciled

Source

A.C. Grayling (The Good State [2020], 2)

Book Ref

Grayling,A.C.: 'The Good State' [Oneworld 2021], p.37


A Reaction

[He particularly cites Isaiah Berlin for this view] Hm. The liberty of one is the liberty of all. I don't think I would feel that my liberty was unreasonably infringed if I lived in a society of imposed equality. The greedy hate equality the most.


The 9 ideas from 'The Good State'

Majority decisions are only acceptable if the minority interests are not vital [Grayling]
Liberty and equality cannot be reconciled [Grayling]
The very concept of democracy entails a need for justice [Grayling]
There should be separate legislative, executive and judicial institutions [Grayling]
A cap on time of service would restrict party control and career ambitions [Grayling]
Experience, sympathy and history are sensible grounds for laying claim to rights [Grayling]
Politics is driven by power cliques [Grayling]
Democracies should require a supermajority for major questions [Grayling]
It is essential for democracy that voting is free and well informed [Grayling]