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Equality is a fundamental concept in political theory, addressing how individuals and groups are treated in society and the principles that guide fair distribution of resources, opportunities, and rights. In NCERT Class 11 Political Science Chapter 3: Political Theory: Equality, students explore the meaning, types, and challenges of achieving equality in diverse societies. These solutions to the chapter’s exercises are designed to simplify complex ideas, provide clear explanations, and help students develop a strong understanding of equality in the context of political theory.
Explore Notes of Class 11 Political Theory
Exercises for Political Theory: Equality
1. 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.
Solution:
I support the view that equality is natural and inequalities are created by society. All human beings share a common humanity, deserving equal worth and dignity. Inequalities arise due to social structures, such as caste, gender, or economic systems, which create unequal access to opportunities.
For example, historical practices like untouchability in India or apartheid in South Africa were societal creations, not natural. Natural differences, like talents, exist, but they do not justify systemic inequalities. Social conditions, such as lack of education or discrimination, amplify these differences, making inequalities appear natural. Promoting equality requires addressing these societal barriers to ensure fair opportunities for all.
2. 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?
Solution:
Yes, I agree that absolute economic equality is neither possible nor desirable. People have different abilities, efforts, and roles, leading to varied economic outcomes. For example, a doctor’s specialized work may warrant higher pay than a laborer’s, incentivizing skill development. Absolute equality could discourage innovation and productivity. However, extreme economic gaps create injustice and social unrest. Societies should reduce disparities through measures like progressive taxation, free education, or subsidies for the poor.
For instance, India’s reservation system aims to uplift marginalized groups, narrowing economic divides without enforcing identical outcomes. The goal is to ensure fair opportunities while allowing reasonable differences.
3. Match the following concepts with appropriate instances:
a. Affirmative action i. Every adult citizen has a right to vote
b. Equality of opportunity ii. Banks offer higher rate of interest to senior citizens
c. Equal Rights iii. Every child should get free education
Solution:
a. Affirmative action – ii. Banks offer higher rate of interest to senior citizens
b. Equality of opportunity – iii. Every child should get free education
c. Equal Rights – i. Every adult citizen has a right to vote
Explanation:
- Affirmative action involves special measures to support disadvantaged groups, like higher interest rates for senior citizens to address their financial needs.
- Equality of opportunity ensures everyone has access to basic resources, such as free education for children to develop their potential.
- Equal Rights refers to universal entitlements, like the right to vote for all adult citizens, ensuring political equality.
4. 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?
Solution:
Yes, the recommendation aligns with the principle of equality. Equality does not mean identical treatment but treating people as equals, sometimes requiring differential support to address disadvantages. Small and marginal farmers face structural barriers, like limited market access or bargaining power, unlike larger farmers. Government intervention, such as price support for these farmers, promotes equality by leveling the playing field.
For example, India’s Minimum Support Price (MSP) system aims to protect vulnerable farmers, ensuring economic fairness without unfairly privileging them. This aligns with equality by addressing systemic inequities.
5. Which of the following violates 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 senior citizens.
d. Access to some forest areas is reserved for certain tribal communities.
Solution:
Option b violates the principles of equality. The Government of Canada’s policy of encouraging white Europeans to migrate while excluding others was discriminatory, based on race and ethnicity. Equality requires treating all individuals with equal respect, regardless of such characteristics. This policy favored one group, denying equal opportunities to others.
Explanation of other options:
- a. Allowing every child to read by turn is fair and promotes equal participation, aligning with equality.
- c. A separate railway counter for senior citizens is a form of affirmative action, addressing their specific needs (e.g., mobility issues), consistent with equality.
- d. Reserving forest access for tribal communities supports their traditional rights and corrects historical marginalization, aligning with equality through affirmative action.
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