I am aware of multiple divisions in our nation. In fact, it is fractured as other nations are. Reading various books, e.g., First Principles (Thomas Ricks), On Tyranny (Timothy Synder) only emphasizes the predicament resulting from human limitations. Re-Enchanting the Earth (Ilia Delia) details the long history from pre-historic times through the evolution to humans who remain in so many ways primitive in their dealing with one another. One of the problems confronting our nation at the moment is the distribution of resources, crystallized by the argument over equity versus equality.
First, let’s distinguish between equality and equity when considering the distribution of resources. Equality focuses on the fact that all humans are essentially the same. When a nation is confronted with economic distress, it appears fair from one dimension that any national distribution of resources should encompass as many as possible with the same amount. In short, we treat the general population the same and exclude only those with great wealth determined by statistics.
Equity examines the same population but focuses more on those with significantly less resources and seeks to give them more than those with more, albeit still in need, given the national economic situation.
I support the view that equity should dominate. To give the same too everyone earning less than X the same seems unfair and only increases the problems associated with enhancing national unity. I am in no position to suggest the markers that would determine the various distributions for those in need, but I remain convinced that our nation’s well-being will only be more vulnerable without focusing on issues that separate those making X from those making Y.
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