Core idea
Equality means treating people as equals in moral and political standing, while recognising that identical treatment can preserve disadvantage. Consider legal, political and social dimensions, equal opportunity and efforts to address structural barriers. Explain the principle behind a policy and assess evidence about its effects.
Key terms
equal status; equality of opportunity; substantive equality; discrimination
How to build an answer
Define the concept, state the principle or argument, apply it to a concrete example and consider a limitation or competing claim. Use examples to clarify the concept, not to replace reasoning.
Practice
- Why might equal treatment sometimes require different support?
- Give a real or hypothetical example that illustrates the concept.
- State one reasonable objection or limitation and explain how you would respond.