Equality

Abstract

The intrinsic social value of equality is defended against utilitarianism and the theory of individual rights. The author rejects the idea that equality is simply a matter of distribution, arguing that it is a fundamental moral principle which requires a separate assessment from each person’s point of view. The author explains this perspective by comparing it to the theory of rights, where each person is given an equal claim against interference from others. The author then suggests that, by combining the egalitarian perspective with utility and the theory of individual rights, one can create a more comprehensive and plausible view of ethics. – AI-generated abstract.