difference between equal and equity

Understanding the Difference Between Equal and Equity

Many people often use the terms “equal” and “equity” interchangeably, thinking that they have the same meaning. However, the two terms have different implications, especially when talking about social justice and fairness. In this article, we’ll dive into the differences between equal and equity.

Equal Vs. Equity: What’s the Difference?

The words “equal” and “equity” both mean “fairness.” However, their meanings diverge when we’re talking about their application in society or organizations. Equality refers to ensuring that everyone has the same opportunities and resources, regardless of their background or needs. Essentially, everyone gets treated the same way.

While equality sounds ideal in theory, one issue with it is that it assumes that everyone starts from the same baseline, with the same set of advantages and disadvantages. In reality, however, there are inherent differences in people, communities, and societies, and these disparities can limit many people’s access to opportunities and resources, even if they work hard to get them.

Equity, on the other hand, emphasizes fairness and justice by taking into account the individual’s varying circumstances and needs. In other words, equity means providing each person with what they need to achieve equality. Unlike equality, equity recognizes and takes into consideration the unique situations of individuals, allowing them to start from an equitable baseline.

Here’s an example to illustrate the difference between equality and equity. Imagine a group of students who all have to take a test. Equality would mean that they all receive the same study materials, class time, and resources. Equity, on the other hand, would mean that those who need additional support, such as one-on-one tutoring or more time to complete the test, receive it so that they can have an equitable chance of performing well on the test.

Why Equity Matters More than Equality

While equality is still essential, most people agree that equity matters more in promoting fairness and justice. By prioritizing equity, we can ensure that everyone has the necessary resources and support to achieve their goals, regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, or any other factor.

Ultimately, we must recognize that not all individuals have the same starting point when it comes to opportunities and resources. By acknowledging these differences and providing an equitable foundation, we can overcome these disparities and make significant progress towards a fairer and more just society.

Conclusion

Equal and equity are two words that may sound similar, but they have different meanings when it comes to promoting fairness and justice in society. While equality means treating everyone the same way, equity prioritizes the individual’s unique circumstances, ensuring that everyone has what they need to achieve equality. By focusing on equity, we can work towards a more just society where everyone has the same opportunities to succeed.

Table difference between equal and equity