First we shall begin by classifying equality into the three sections as posited by Aristotle and Plato. Then provide an example of equality. Finally provide a negation of equality.
Natural equality is frequently the intended meaning when people hear or talk about equality. Natural equality is what is being mentioned in the constitution when discussing rights equal to all humans. Under natural equality, no man is any better than any other based on status, views, etc… He is simply a man. It is often a subject of debate how natural equality should be applied in society.
Political equality is concerned with the relation of the individual to the government. It discusses the state of equality that exists when the governed adhere to a contract which gives their ruler the power to rule. Some would not consider this equality when compared to modern views but it really is when you consider that power must voluntarily be given to the ruler by the governed following a social contract. To quote Thomas Hobbes on the topic of political equality, “a state also of equality, wherein all power and jurisdiction is reciprocal, no one having more than another.”
Social equality’s concern is that of man’s relationship with society, including such things as his race, religious affiliations, and class. There have been countless discussions and papers concerning social equality by thousands of philosophers. It is perhaps the most discussed type of equality in philosophy.
Generally, equality can be simplified as the state of being equal in status, rights, and opportunities. Possibly one of the best and easiest to use examples of equality can be found in the United States Constitution. In our constitution it is established that all men are created equal, with equal rights and privileges. In fact the type of natural equality discussed in the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution are based on John Locke’s idea that all of man is equal in certain natural rights.