Equality

Abstract

This chapter delineates the position of equality in Marxism by comparing Marxist concept of equality with that of egalitarian liberalism. First, in a socialist society, productive assets and means of consumption are not equally owned by individuals but are placed under social ownership. Second, communist society prioritizes equality of conditions over equality of opportunity. The reason for choosing equality of conditions is not rooted in egalitarianism but communism. Third, radical egalitarianism encourages individualism and does not solve the problem of alienation. Fourth, as individuals in a communist society find their highest self-realization in contributing to society even if their condition is lowered from the average, inequality of conditions might occur; however, correcting inequality is unnecessary. Thus, Marxism supports egalitarianism as far as it contributes to communism but prioritizes communism in situations where egalitarianism and communism conflict with each other. Marxism is nonegalitarian in this sense.