Solution of Chapter 3. Equality (Political Theory Book)

Some people argue that inequality is natural while others maintain that it is equality which is natural and the inequalities which we notice around us are created by society. Which view do you support? Give reasons.

There is a view that absolute economic equality is neither possible nor desirable. It is argued that the most a society can do is to try and reduce the gaps between the richest and poorest members of society. Do you agree?

Match the following concepts with appropriate instances:

A government report on farmers’ problems says that small and marginal farmers cannot get good prices from the market. It recommends that the government should intervene to ensure a better price but only for small and marginal farmers. Is this recommendation consistent with the principle of equality?

Which of the following violate the principles of equality? And why?

A. Every child in class will read the text of the play by turn.

B. The Government of Canada encouraged white Europeans to migrate to Canada from the end of the Second World War till 1960.

C. There is a separate railway reservation counter for the senior citizens.

D. Access to some forest areas is reserved for certain tribal

Here are some arguments in favour of the right to vote for women. Which of these are consistent with the idea of equality? Give reasons.

A. Women are our mothers. We shall not disrespect our mothers by denying them the right to vote.

B. Decisions of the government affect women as well as men, therefore they also should have a say in choosing the rulers.

C. Not granting women the right to vote will cause disharmony in the family.

D. Women constitute half of humanity. You cannot subjugate them for long by denying them the right to vote.