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In what sense should we be egalitarian ? What should we try to equalise ?
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| Submitted: Mon Jun 19 2006
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In what sense should we be egalitarian ? What should we try to equalise ? Egalitarianism has been rightly identified as an "essentially contested concept", that is, there is not, and it is doubtful whether there ever can be, any agreement as to its meaning (HURLEY, 1993, p179). The value of equality is disputed by different thinkers. Some believe that equality is only to be valued as a means of attaining some broader aim, for example the maximisation of utility. By contrast, others believe that equality has an intrinsic value and should be pursued as an end in itself (BARRY, 1995, p186). The view taken on this question has important implications for debates concerning value conflicts, for example between equality and liberty. Moreover, even amongst those who accept equality as a primary goal, there is little agreement over what should be equalised. For example, should we try to equalise opportunity or...
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