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Single Idea 3233

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

Full Idea

Supporters of equality have asserted that people are alike in certain things they could do or achieve, as well as in the things that they need and could suffer.

Gist of Idea

Equality implies that people are alike in potential as well as in needs

Source

Bernard Williams (The Idea of Equality [1962], §2)

Book Ref

Williams,Bernard: 'Problems of the Self: Papers 1956-1972' [CUP 1979], p.234


The 4 ideas from 'The Idea of Equality'

It is a mark of extreme exploitation that the sufferers do not realise their plight [Williams,B]
Equality implies that people are alike in potential as well as in needs [Williams,B]
Equality seems to require that each person be acknowledged as having a significant point of view [Williams,B]
Equality of opportunity without equality of respect would create a very inhuman society [Williams,B]