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What is Equalism?

Equalism is the belief that all human beings, regardless of gender, race, age, ethnic origin, or any other factor that defines our individual differences, are totally equal. Supporters of equalism believe that in order for equality to exist, society as a whole must be virtually "color-blind" and "gender-blind," and that the laws and policies which govern our society must be created for the benefit of all and not based on these differences. The term equalism is often interchanged with the word eqalitarianism, a philosophy which by definition means, "affirming, promoting, or characterized by belief in equal political, economic, social, and civil rights for all people."

Equalists are not supportive of such movements as feminism as they see this not as a quest for equality, but simply for women's rights. They believe that legal and social changes occurring through the efforts of such movements only serve those of the group and further disrupt the balance of equality. They also argue against the elements of affirmative action, which is the process of making opportunities more easily available to groups that have been discriminated against in the past. Equalists believe that such actions are no less discriminatory, they simply discriminate against a different group. They do not believe that equality can be achieved if changes are the product of accountability for past wrongs. Thus, affirmative action is often referred to as "reverse discrimination."

Socialist equalism is an extreme form of equalism known to be even more radical in its support for equality. Followers of this doctrine believe that such things as individual competition should be eliminated because it focuses on the inequality or weaknesses of others.

As so many distinct groups seek support in their individual fight for equal rights, we often lose sight of the complexity of the problem. Equalists believe the problems of our society will not be solved by giving more rights to women, ethnic groups, or immigrants to the extent that they feel satisfactorily compensated for past suffering. Instead, the equal treatment of all individuals is the only true and complete definition of equality.

Learn more about this author, Carol Wohlfeil.
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