definition of inequality

The term inequality is used to indicate the opposite of equality, that is, the lack of balance between two or more things. The notion of inequality generally has a negative meaning and does not mean diversity (in the sense that not all are equal) but rather represents the idea of lack of balance between two or more parts that take place in the event. Normally, the term is related to social issues and access to the same lifestyle, phenomena that have to do with society and that represent the establishment of social hierarchies, differences and distinctions between different classes or social groups.

We all have a rough idea of what the concept of inequality means, in short, it is simply the lack of similarity between two things or realities.

As we explained, inequality as a general idea normally has a comparative dimension, since it is about establishing the differences between two issues. On the other hand, when we talk about unequal things we do not compare completely different things (for example, a fruit and a mountain) but things that have something in common but present some differences (for example, inequalities between humans or between geometric figures) .

The equal-unequal binomial serves to understand very different aspects. In the field of language we use it in the use of synonyms and antonyms. In mathematics we could not manage without the idea of equality and inequality. In zoology it is necessary to establish the similarities and differences between species. And from the point of view of the logic of reasoning, we speak of equality because there is inequality.

The fight for equality

Humans are unequal in many ways (in intelligence, strength, or social conditions). There are inequalities that are accepted with normality, as they are considered logical and natural and, in this sense, it would not be justified for someone to claim their participation on equal terms in the Olympic Games for the simple fact of dedicating themselves to a sport. However, certain inequalities between people are considered unfair or undesirable (for example, those related to salary between men and women).

The inequalities classified as unjust have promoted a struggle throughout history. This is what has happened in relation to slavery, the feminist movement or racial discrimination. In our days the fight against inequalities continues in many orders, from the sphere of people with disabilities to discrimination on religious, ethnic or cultural grounds.

The controversial side of equality

The aspiration to equality among men as a desire to overcome discrimination is a noble sentiment and a worthy ideal. However, it is not without some perverse aspirations. Communism is an ideology that proposes full equality for all and in its attempt to apply this idea this revolutionary movement has starred in all kinds of atrocities throughout history. The imposition of equality has risks and drawbacks.

Let's think of an employer who, in good faith, decides to impose the same salary among all his workers regardless of what their duties are, or a soccer coach who decides that all players must play the same number of minutes throughout a tournament . These types of proposals have an equalizing motivation but go against efficiency and profitability (a football team does not play a competition to do justice but simply to win).

In order to combat the evils of inequality, it does not seem reasonable to be inspired by a criterion of absolute equality. In this line, we usually use an alternative criterion, equal opportunities, which comes to say that we are unequal but it is convenient that there are starting conditions that place us on an initial level of equality and based on the effort or ability to perform. each one will emerge the logical differences between individuals.