He Who Defines Wins: American Equality

Equality has been one of the greatest achievements of the American system. Starting from the Declaration of Independence, America has made equality its goal. Tocqueville even points out that Americans are zealous for equality. But what is this equality all about? What are we really talking about when we proclaim equality for all?

There are two aspects that encompass what Americans mean by equality. The first is equality before the law. No matter who one is, how much one owns, or social status one can not bypass the law. The king is not above the law. He along with his subjects must answer to the law. It is with this understanding, the law as an equalizer that Americans have begun to make specific the abstract.

The second aspect is opportunity. Americans believe that individuals should have the ability to compete for…fill in the blank. One should have the opportunity to find and hold a job, to purchase and own a home, to gain promotions, etc. Notice however, that this is a competition. Equality of opportunity is not the same as equality of position and wealth. This understanding of equality leaves no room for guaranteed positions. One is not guaranteed a job, a home, nor a car. There is always the potential for these things. They are not going to be handed out, but are there for the taking.

While Americans have made great strides in creating equality before the law and equal opportunity, they do accept a rough inequality. Americans, for the most part, do not believe in equal socioeconomic equality. Granted, when one gains an enormous amount of wealth and prominence, Americans become a bit jealous and say it isn’t fair. But they realize that they have just as much potential of becoming the next Trump or Gates.

When touting equality, Americans should be prepared to define. In this current world of abstract, it is important to know what one is promoting. It is within the context of law and opportunity that Americans traditionally understand equality.