Social equality provides all individuals in our society with the same rights, social status, access to opportunities (i.e., education), resources and services free from discrimination, the removal of barriers and no matter the race, gender, background or characteristic of the individual.
“Egalitarianism {root of the work egalitarian in French égal - equal and égalitaire - egalitarian from égalité - equality, and originally coming from Latin aequalitas - equality and aequalis - equal} is a philosophical belief in human equality, and it emphasizes equal treatment across gender, religion, economic status, and political beliefs. It can be seen in economic, social, and legal terms. … At its core, egalitarianism holds that all people are fundamentally equal. … Everyone should be treated equally and have equal opportunities and access in society, no matter their gender, race, or religion.” (https://www.investopedia.com/terms/e/egalitarianism.asp)
Rudolf Dreikurs made the following statements in his book Social Equality: The Challenge of Today (1971), “Adler recognized equality as a fundamental prerequisite for the logic of social living, without it, there can be no stability or social harmony."; The challenge is to establish social equality for all ..."; As social interest is decisive for the function of each individual, so a sense of social equality is a prerequisite if everyone is to develop his social interest."; Only a society of equals can build democracy, and democracy is the dominant characteristic of a new phase of mankind's experience."
Social equality is about treating people as human beings and with dignity and respect so that they feel valued, a sense of belonging, thrive and be able to achieve their full potential. This creates a community of welcome for the common good of society. So ask yourself, what can I do to make things better for all of us?
Reference
- Kenton, W. (February 17, 2025). Egalitarianism: Definitions, Ideas, and Types. Investopedia. https://www.investopedia.com/terms/e/egalitarianism.asp
- Merriam-Webster Dictionary. Egalitarianism. https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/egalitarianism
- Dreikurs, R. (1971). Social equality: The challenge of today. Chicago, IL: Adler School of Professional Psychology, Inc.