Equity Vs. Equality

Over the last few months, I have seen this picture many times.

I used to be the one vouching for equality but this image makes me think differently. While equality is about sameness, equity is about fairness.

If we keep talking about equality, we will never reach where we want to go. We will also not be able to do the right thing for people.

An equitable treatment hence ensures there is level playing field for those in it.

With an equitable treatment, it is possible that the sense of fairness goes away for a short duration. What one needs to remember is that equity creates an opportunity to bring equality.

What do you think?


Linking up with Mel’s Microblog Mondays #298 today.


18 thoughts on “Equity Vs. Equality

  1. While equality is about sameness, equity is about fairness.THIS IS CALLED SOCIAL JUSTICE WITHOUT WHICH REAL DEMOCRACY CAN NEVER BE A REALITY. IF ONE CANNOT REFORM WITH EQUITY ONE SHOULD NOT REFORM AT ALL.
    A VERY GOOD POST INDEED.

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  2. Absolutely Parul. A lot of people in the corporate world never seem to get the focus on gender diversity. It’s unfair to men they claim. But they fail to see , to bring in equality in the true sense we will have to make good the years of inequality met out to women due to which we are in far more disadvantaged position. Giving them a lift in aspects go get them on a level playing field is not unfair

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  3. I agree with you! I think equity is very important and when we say equitable distribution of opportunities and power we are talking progress in the real sense of the world, which can shift the power equation to reflect the change that we wish to see.
    The events currently taking place in our country make me wonder if that will ever be a reality in this country!

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  4. I think it depends on context. Equality to a certain extent needs to come first, before we can think of equity. If you think of the suffragette movement, equality was needed – in terms of equal voting rights – before one could even start a conversation on equity.

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  5. Your image says it all. Wonder point to ponder upon. Don’t they two go hand in hand? Equality is what will propel equity?
    Just my two annas. 🙂

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  6. Interesting perspective. Equal isn’t always fair. I thinking although different situations should be deal with differently, most likely equity seems the right way to go.

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  7. You made me think about it. I have also been a advocate of equality but this post showed me the challenges of equality. This is indeed a thing to think over. Thanks for this beautiful thought Parul.

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  8. Seeing this picture long ago is what made me understand reservation system better. The fact that some of us are more privileged than the others right from birth is something we might overlook. You’re right, equity and equality are quite different and it’s important to understand that when discussing equality.

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  9. In a world where equality isn’t acceptable I am not sure how equity will be treated. We need equity to achieve equality. But to achieve true equality we need equity in all areas. Honestly, I can’t see that happening any time soon. I do hope though, this picture would bring some understanding in people.
    Thought provoking, Parul.

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  10. This one suits every sphere of life, so very justly! Powerful picture to explain the powerful message.

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  11. Well this is an interesting thought you have put out there Parul- I just love the picture. Thanks for sharing it with me as I hadnt seen it before. I love the concept too and agree that it might seem unfair at first but all in all it will level the playing field and bring about equal opportunities for all. Just one thought- deserving should be the ones being brought forward and not that it starts providing for mediocricity.

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  12. I learnt to differentiate between equality and justice after I had the twins and was constantly being accused by at least one of them for being unfair. I love how clearly the picture sets the record straight.

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