In a just social order, the principle of equality ought to take precedence over that

  • Thread starter wasteofo2
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Principle
In summary: The fix for equality would require some level of coercion, which then goes against the principle of liberty. This highlights the conflict between the two principles and strengthens the argument for equality taking precedence over liberty in a just social order.In summary, the debate revolves around the question of whether equality or liberty should be given more importance in a just social order. The argument for equality taking precedence over liberty is based on the belief that liberty cannot truly exist without equality, as it would lead to an anarchic society where some individuals have the power to control and restrict the liberties of others. The argument acknowledges that the pursuit of equality may require some level of coercion, but ultimately it is necessary for justice and order to be achieved in society.
  • #1
wasteofo2
478
2
In a just social order, equality ought to take precedence over liberty.

I'm starting this thread as grounds for a civil debate.

Topic:
In a just social order, the principle of equality ought to take precedence over that of liberty.

Here's my take on the subject and a general form to follow for your first statement about your beliefs.



Due to the fact that I value both liberty and equality, I must affirm the statement "In a just social order, the principle of equality ought to take precedence over that of liberty. "

My vaules are protection of life and utilitarianism.

When referring to a just social order I'll be referring to a society in which the ideals of the western world are fully realized. When referring to liberty, I'll be referring to freedom of actions in general.

My first contention is thus: In the absence of equality, liberty can not truley exist.

Subpoint A: In a society where all have the liberty to do whatever they want and there is no regulation of actions to try to keep all equal, people can do most anything they want. Person A could force Person B into slavery through use of physical force and thus eliminate Person B's liberty to do what he wants, thus negating the principle of liberty throughout the society.

Subpoint B: With no enforcements of equality, employers could act however they want. They could refuse to pay their employees and the employees could become poor and loose all of their financial liberty. They would have no money to buy food, clothing or pay for any nessecity of life and could, as a result, die.

Me second contention is thus: Liberty without equality is anarchy.

An anarchistic society can not be one which also has just social order. Without equality there is no order and people can do whatever they want, including killing of people en masse, which is hardly a sign of just social order.

In conclusion: Justice and order cannot be accomplished with the people of a society having liberty and not equality, as they would have the liberty to destroy the freedoms of others and thus liberty would not exist.
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Liberty without equality is anarchy.

Liberty without equality means that some people can take away other's liberties. It means some people control other people- which really isn't anarchy but government, isn't it?
 
  • #3
Originally posted by Sikz
Liberty without equality means that some people can take away other's liberties. It means some people control other people- which really isn't anarchy but government, isn't it?

When I said anarchy I meant a lack of a national government responsible for governing all the people of the nation.
 
  • #4
In conclusion: Justice and order cannot be accomplished with the people of a society having liberty and not equality, as they would have the liberty to destroy the freedoms of others and thus liberty would not exist.

Since liberty without equality = no liberty, you've essentially proved liberty without equality impossible, not just ineffective.
 
  • #5
Its been a while since I last saw a Lincoln-Douglas debate...

By the way, Utilitarianism (the theory that actions are deemed morally right if they bring the greatest good to the greatest number) is not as intelligent as it sounds, instead I recommend a value such as Pragmaticism...
 
  • #6
I just can't resist this. WasteofO2 is begging the question in the correct sense, since his fix for equality has precisely the fault (coercion) that required the fix in the first place.
 
  • #7
Originally posted by selfAdjoint
I just can't resist this. WasteofO2 is begging the question in the correct sense, since his fix for equality has precisely the fault (coercion) that required the fix in the first place.

Yeah, I agree.
 

What does "In a just social order, the principle of equality ought to take precedence over that" mean?

The statement means that in a fair society, the principle of equality should be given more importance than any other principle.

What is the principle of equality?

The principle of equality is the belief that all individuals, regardless of their differences, should be treated equally and have equal rights and opportunities in society.

Why should the principle of equality take precedence over other principles in a just social order?

The principle of equality is essential in creating a fair and just society as it ensures that everyone is treated fairly and has equal access to opportunities. It also promotes social cohesion and prevents discrimination and injustice.

What are some examples of other principles that the principle of equality may take precedence over?

Some examples may include economic principles such as capitalism or socialism, political principles such as democracy or authoritarianism, or cultural principles such as individualism or collectivism.

How can a society ensure that the principle of equality takes precedence over other principles?

This can be achieved through implementing laws and policies that promote equality and prevent discrimination, providing equal access to education and employment opportunities, and promoting awareness and understanding of the importance of equality in society.

Similar threads

  • General Discussion
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • General Discussion
2
Replies
38
Views
28K
Replies
3
Views
5K
  • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
7
Views
833
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • Sci-Fi Writing and World Building
Replies
7
Views
900
  • General Discussion
5
Replies
169
Views
18K
Replies
15
Views
2K
Writing: Input Wanted Captain's choices on colony ships
  • Sci-Fi Writing and World Building
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • General Discussion
Replies
10
Views
7K
Back
Top