📘 PSIR – Political Theory | Page 16 Concept of Equality (Formal, Substantive, Liberal & Marxist Perspectives)
UPSC CSE Political Science & IR – Paper I Conceptual + Analytical + Mains-Oriented Notes | Shaktimatha Learning
1️⃣ What is Equality?
Equality means absence of unjustified discrimination and equal moral worth of all individuals.
It does NOT mean everyone is identical. It means everyone deserves equal concern and respect.
2️⃣ Formal Equality
Formal equality means equality before law.
- Equal legal status
- No discrimination
- Merit-based competition
Example: Article 14 – Equality before law
Limitation: Ignores historical disadvantages.
3️⃣ Substantive Equality
Substantive equality recognizes structural inequalities and supports affirmative action.
- Reservation policies
- Protective discrimination
- Welfare schemes
Equality of opportunity requires correcting social disadvantages.
4️⃣ Liberal Perspective on Equality
Classical liberals support equality before law but accept economic inequality.
Modern liberals like Rawls modify this view.
5️⃣ John Rawls – Theory of Justice
- Original Position
- Veil of Ignorance
- Two Principles of Justice
Difference Principle: Inequality is allowed only if it benefits the least advantaged.
Rawls bridges liberty and equality.
6️⃣ Marxist View on Equality
Marx rejects formal equality as illusion.
- Capitalism creates structural inequality
- Private property is root cause
- True equality requires abolition of class system
“From each according to ability, to each according to need.”
7️⃣ Types of Equality
| Type | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Legal Equality | Equality before law |
| Political Equality | One person, one vote |
| Social Equality | No caste/gender discrimination |
| Economic Equality | Reduction of wealth gap |
8️⃣ Equality in Indian Constitution
- Article 14 – Equality before law
- Article 15 – Prohibition of discrimination
- Article 16 – Equality of opportunity in public employment
- Reservation policies
Indian Constitution adopts substantive equality model.
9️⃣ Equality vs Liberty Debate
Excess equality may restrict liberty. Excess liberty may create inequality.
Modern democratic states attempt balance.
🔟 Contemporary Issues
- Economic inequality in neoliberal era
- Gender pay gap
- Caste-based inequalities
- Digital divide
📌 UPSC MAINS QUESTIONS
- Distinguish between formal and substantive equality.
- Discuss Rawls' theory of distributive justice.
- Is equality compatible with liberty?
- Critically examine Marxist critique of liberal equality.
Answer Structure:
- Define equality
- Formal vs substantive distinction
- Liberal view
- Rawlsian correction
- Marxist critique
- Indian constitutional relevance
- Balanced conclusion
Equality is not sameness. It is fairness structured through justice.
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